LANAP vs. Pinhole Chao in Columbia, MD

Pinhole Surgery Technique vs. LANAP: Which is the Best Gum Treatment for You?

At Smile Savers Dental, we believe in offering the best treatments available for periodontal diseases and gum recession. Both Pinhole Surgical Technique and The Laser-Assisted-New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) are innovative dental procedures. Although both have significant benefits, LANAP offers superior long-term health. We'll compare these two treatments and explain why LANAP may be the best choice for you.

What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)?

The Pinhole Surgical technique is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats gum recess without the need for traditional gingival grafting. This technique involves making a small "pinhole" through the gums. Specialized instruments are then used to reposition gum tissue over the exposed tooth roots. Collagen is then inserted into the gums to stabilize their new placement.


Benefits of PST:

  • No need for sutures or scalpels.
  • The procedure is minimally invasive and causes minimal discomfort.
  • Immediate aesthetic improvements.
  • Fast recovery time


The disadvantages of PST:

  • It is primarily a cosmetic treatment that does not treat gingivitis.
  • It does not promote bone and gum regeneration or eliminate bacteria.
  • In severe cases, the results may not be permanent.
  • Increased risk of gum recession returning with time

PST is suitable for patients with mild or moderate gum recession but does not treat the underlying periodontal infection.


What is LANAP?

The Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is an FDA-approved laser therapy specifically designed to Treat Periodontal Disease and promote gum and bone regeneration. Unlike PST, LANAP does much more than just repositioning the gum tissue. It eliminates infection and stimulates natural healing.

The LANAP involves:

  • Targeting harmful bacteria deep in gum pockets with laser energy 
  • Removing diseased tissue while maintaining healthy gum structure.
  • Stimulating bone and tissue regeneration and reducing the risk of tooth decay.
  • Sealing gum pockets to prevent future infection.


Benefits of LANAP :

  • Treatment for both periodontal disease and gum recession.
  • Stimulates natural tissue regeneration.
  • The procedure is minimally invasive and causes little or no discomfort.
  • Reduced risk of gum recession and faster healing.
  • Preventing further gum degradation for long-term success.
  • No need for cutting or sutures.
  • Delivers predictable, long-lasting results.


The disadvantages of LANAP

  • It is costlier initially but cost-effective in the long run
  • Laser technology is required.
  • Only a limited number of procedures are available compared to the traditional gum surgery.

LANAP offers a comprehensive solution that is also regenerative. This makes it a better option for patients suffering from gum disease or recession.


Key Comparisons: PST vs. LANAP

Features Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) LANAP
Primary Use Treatment for cosmetic gum recession Treatment of periodontal disease and gum recession
Regenerative Properties NFo, Yes, it promotes bone and gingival regeneration
Procedure Invasiveness Minimum Invasive Minimum Invasive
Pain & Recovery Quick recovery, minor discomfort Minimal pain, faster healing
Long-Term Effectiveness May require retreatment Long-lasting Results
Eliminates Gum Disease No, Yes,
FDA Approved Periodontal Disease Treatment? No, Yes,
Number Of Treatments Required You may need to receive additional treatment One treatment is usually enough
Does it Reduce the Future Risk of Gum Disease No, Yes,

PST can be a cosmetic treatment for gum recession. However, it doesn't address Periodontal Disease or promote tissue regeneration. The LANAP treatment is ideal for patients looking for a solution that addresses both gum health and long-term protection from gum disease.


Why LANAP is the Best Choice for Long-Term Gum Health

LANAP is a highly effective and scientifically supported treatment for patients suffering from mild to severe gum disease or gum recession. It is more effective than PST, which only repositions the gum tissue. LANAP also fights the infection behind gum disease and encourages natural gum and bone regeneration.


LANAP Helps Prevent Tooth Loss

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth decay in adults. As gum disease advances, it destroys the supporting bones and tissue structures surrounding the teeth, making them vulnerable to falling out. LANAP is the only treatment that can stop gum disease and stimulate new growth, helping to save teeth.


LANAP Offers a Faster and Easier Recovery

When patients undergo traditional gum surgery or even PST, they often experience significant pain and prolonged healing times. LANAP, a laser-based surgery, does not require cutting or stitching, meaning less discomfort and a faster recovery. The majority of patients are able to return to normal activity within one or two weeks as opposed to the several weeks needed to recover from conventional surgery.


The LANAP Solution is a Long-Term One

PST can provide immediate aesthetic improvement, but it cannot stop the progression of gum disease or prevent future gum degradation. LANAP is a long-term solution. The treatment not only eliminates bacteria that cause disease but also stimulates the body's natural healing process, leading to healthier, stronger gums.

We prioritize our patients' comfort and long-term success. That is why we recommend LANAP instead of PST when a patient wants the most effective and advanced gum treatment.


Schedule Your LANAP Consultation at Smile Savers Dentistry


Early treatment is important if you have bleeding or receding gums, or persistent bad breath. The best choice for gum health is LANAP.


Schedule a consultation today with Smile Saver Dentistry and find out if Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is right for you. We can help you achieve an improved smile using the latest laser technology.


Schedule your appointment now and start the journey to a healthier smile.

Understanding LANAP: A Modern Approach to Gum Disease Therapy

LANAP is a minimally invasive approach that uses advanced laser technology without incisions or stitches to eliminate bacteria from periodontal pockets. LANAP is a gentler option to traditional gum surgery that can be painful and traumatic.

  • Precision and Accuracy

    The LANAP laser is a remarkable tool for treating infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue around it. LANAP targets the bacteria and the diseased tissue to ensure that the infection is completely removed without causing damage to the gums, supporting structures, or the gums themselves.

  • Stimulates Tissue Regeneration

    LANAP not only removes bacteria but also promotes the body's healing response. This results in the regeneration of healthy bone and gum tissue. This regenerative action helps rebuild the attachment of the gums to the teeth over time, improving periodontal stability and health.

  • Reduced Pain and Recovery Time

    LANAP has a shorter recovery time and less discomfort compared to traditional surgery. No incisions are made and no sutures are used, so patients will experience less bleeding, swelling, and pain after the procedure.

  • Preservation of Healthy Tissue

    The ability of LANAP to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible is one of its key advantages. LANAP reduces the trauma caused to the gums, surrounding structures, and the teeth by removing only diseased tissue.

  • Comprehensive Treatment

    The LANAP treatment is appropriate for patients at various stages of periodontal disease. This includes mild gingivitis and advanced periodontitis. LANAP is a comprehensive treatment for periodontal disease, whether you are in the early stages or need more intensive care.

  • Long-Term Stability

    Studies show that LANAP treatment can improve periodontal stability and health. Many patients report long-term stability and success following the treatment. LANAP addresses the underlying causes of gum disease, promotes tissue regeneration, and helps restore and maintain oral health.

Why Choose Smile Savers for Gum Disease Treatment with LANAP?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, schedule a consultation at Smile Savers Dentistry for LANAP laser gum surgery! Our team will take care of your gums and teeth so you can be proud of your beautiful and healthy smile again. 


Call us at  (410) 730-6460 to schedule your consultation at our Columbia, MD, dental office today!

Invisalign and LANAP Gum Treatment
Used to Align Teeth and Restore Healthy Gum Tissue

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Book Your Consultation for LANAP Today!

LANAP could be the answer you've been searching for if you are struggling with gum disease and want a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. To learn more about the LANAP treatment and to explore your options, schedule a consultation at Smile Savers Dental with Dr. Anuja Patel. Contact us now to begin your journey toward optimal periodontal care with LANAP.

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