LANAP laser treatment offers a less invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery for treating periodontal disease. Unlike conventional surgical approaches that require scalpels and sutures, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and promote healing while preserving healthy gum tissue. The result is typically less discomfort, faster recovery, and minimal disruption to your daily life.
At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists provide advanced LANAP treatment as part of our comprehensive periodontal care. With over 24 years of combined experience in periodontics, implants, and endodontics, Dr. Peto and Dr. Mintz use the latest technologies to deliver optimal results for patients throughout New York’s Rockland County area.
How Does Traditional Gum Surgery Work?
Traditional periodontal surgery, often called flap surgery or osseous surgery, involves making incisions in the gum tissue with a scalpel. Your periodontist folds back the gums to expose the tooth roots and underlying bone, then removes tartar deposits and bacteria from the root surfaces. In many cases, irregular bone surfaces are smoothed to reduce areas where bacteria can hide. After cleaning, the gums are sutured back into place, and the healing process begins.
The recovery from traditional gum surgery typically involves swelling, bleeding, and discomfort for several days. Patients often need prescription pain medication and must follow a soft food diet while the surgical sites heal. Multiple follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and remove sutures.
What Makes LANAP Different?
LANAP, or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, represents a fundamentally different approach to treating gum disease. The procedure uses a fiber-optic laser that selectively targets diseased tissue while leaving healthy gums intact. The laser energy removes bacteria and infected tissue from periodontal pockets without cutting or suturing.
During LANAP treatment, your periodontist inserts a thin laser fiber between your tooth and gum. The laser removes diseased tissue and kills bacteria, then helps stimulate bone regeneration around the tooth. The laser also creates a blood clot that seals the pocket and promotes healing. Because no incisions are made, there are no sutures required.
How Does Recovery Compare Between the Two Approaches?
Recovery experiences differ significantly between traditional surgery and LANAP. Traditional gum surgery often requires one to two weeks of reduced activity, with noticeable swelling and discomfort during the first several days. Patients typically need prescription pain medication and must avoid certain foods that could irritate the surgical sites.
LANAP recovery is generally faster and more comfortable. Most patients report minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within 24 hours. Because the laser cauterizes as it works, there is less bleeding during and after the procedure. Many patients manage any minor discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Your first follow-up appointment typically occurs within two weeks after periodontal surgery to monitor healing. The second follow-up usually happens around eight to ten weeks post-surgery. After that, patients typically visit every three months for the first year following treatment, then can alternate visits every three months with their general dentist.
What Are the Long-Term Results?
Both traditional surgery and LANAP aim to eliminate infection, reduce pocket depths, and promote attachment of gum tissue to tooth surfaces. Clinical studies show that both approaches can achieve these goals when performed correctly.
LANAP may offer some additional benefits in terms of tissue preservation. Because the laser targets only diseased tissue, more healthy gum tissue remains intact. This can be particularly important for maintaining the appearance of your smile, as traditional surgery sometimes results in gum recession that exposes more of the tooth structure.
The choice between traditional gum surgery and LANAP laser treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of your periodontal disease, your overall health, and your personal preferences. Some cases of advanced periodontal disease may still require traditional surgical approaches, while others respond well to laser treatment.
Reach Out to Rockland Dental Specialists
The team at Rockland Dental Specialists takes time to thoroughly explain your treatment options and answer your questions. Our high-end office is designed to optimize comfort during every visit, and we work with patients to create custom payment plans that fit individual needs.
Whether you need LANAP treatment or another periodontal procedure, choosing an experienced periodontist makes a significant difference in your results. Dr. Mintz is board-certified in periodontics and implantology, and our team uses only the highest technologies to provide optimal results with minimal discomfort. If you are concerned about gum disease or would like to learn more about LANAP versus traditional gum surgery, contact us online today to arrange an appointment.
