Why choose LANAP treatment for periodontitis? Learn the top benefits and how it can improve your periodontal health. Discover more at Smile Savers Dentistry!

Did you know that approximately 42.2% of adults aged 30 years and older in the United States suffer from some form of periodontitis? This widespread dental health issue not only causes discomfort but also often leads to invasive surgical treatments that many patients dread.

LANAP treatment offers a compelling alternative that revolutionizes the approach to combating the painful and often embarrassing symptoms of gum disease. This innovative, less invasive laser therapy targets only the affected areas and spares patients from the harsher aspects of traditional surgery.

LANAP treatment eases the burden of recovery and significantly reduces discomfort. Read on to discover how LANAP can transform your oral health experience and turn a daunting diagnosis into a manageable health journey.

Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth. Without treatment, the infection can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications.

The main causes of periodontitis include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Genetic factors

Symptoms often start with swollen and bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums. As the condition progresses, it can cause pain while chewing, sensitive teeth, and even tooth loss.



Timely treatment of periodontitis is crucial. Early intervention can prevent the disease from advancing to more severe stages. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing, and flossing can help manage the early stages of gum disease, but advanced cases require professional treatment to halt further damage.

LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It's an innovative non-surgical gum treatment designed to treat periodontitis effectively while minimizing discomfort.

LANAP uses a specialized laser to target and remove only the diseased tissue, leaving healthy tissue intact. This precision reduces the pain and recovery time associated with traditional gum surgery. 

Compared to traditional gum surgery, which often requires cutting and suturing, LANAP is less invasive and offers several advantages. Traditional surgery can be painful and requires a longer recovery period.

In contrast, LANAP is typically associated with:



• Less pain
• Reduced bleeding
• Faster healing times

This makes LANAP an attractive option for patients seeking advanced periodontal care.

One of the primary LANAP procedure benefits is its minimally invasive nature. Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP does not involve cutting the gums, which means less pain and bleeding for the patient.

The laser used in LANAP specifically targets the infected tissue to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. This precision results in fewer side effects and a more comfortable experience for the patient.

Another significant benefit of LANAP is the faster healing and recovery times. Because the procedure is less invasive, patients typically experience minimal swelling and discomfort after treatment. Many can return to their normal activities much sooner than with traditional surgery.

The laser also promotes the body's natural healing process which leads to better outcomes and quicker recovery.

LANAP also helps in the preservation of healthy gum and bone tissue. Traditional gum surgery can sometimes lead to gum recession and loss of bone tissue.

However, LANAP's targeted approach minimizes these risks. By preserving the natural contours of the gums and stimulating tissue regeneration, LANAP supports the overall health and stability of the teeth.



Moreover, LANAP promotes the natural regeneration of gum and bone tissue. The laser stimulates the bone and tissues to encourage new growth and attachment. This is particularly important for patients with advanced periodontitis, as it helps restore the health and function of the gums and teeth.

The LANAP Procedure

The process begins with the dentist using a specialized dental laser to target and remove infected gum tissue. This laser selectively removes only the diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gum line.

Once the infected tissue is removed, the dentist then proceeds to clean the root surfaces of the teeth. This cleaning is thorough to ensure that all plaque and tartar buildup is eradicated, which is essential for preventing future bacterial infections.

The precision of the laser also helps in creating a conducive environment for healing by forming a stable clot in the treated area. This clot acts as a natural barrier to protect the area from further infection and facilitates the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

The LANAP procedure typically requires one to two sessions. Each lasts about an hour or two, depending on the extent of the periodontal disease.



Patients can expect the LANAP procedure to be relatively quick, usually completed in one or two sessions, depending on the severity of the gum disease. Each session lasts about one to two hours, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After undergoing LANAP treatment, patients need to follow specific post-procedure care instructions to ensure optimal healing. Dentists typically advise avoiding brushing and flossing the treated areas for about a week. This allows the gums to heal properly and remain attached to the teeth.

Patients should also stick to a soft food or liquid diet for the first few days following the procedure. Foods that are easy to chew and swallow help prevent irritation and promote healing.

Avoiding smoking or vaping is essential, as the suction force can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

The typical recovery timeline for LANAP is relatively short. Most patients report minimal discomfort and swelling, and many can return to their regular activities within 24 hours.



Following the dentist's recommendations and maintaining good oral hygiene practices will help ensure a smooth recovery and long-term periodontal health.

Discover a Brighter Dental Future With LANAP Treatment

As we explore the benefits of LANAP treatment, it becomes clear why it stands out as the superior choice for combating periodontitis. This innovative approach minimizes discomfort, speeds up recovery, and, most importantly, saves your gums and teeth.

At Smile Savers Dentistry, our adoption of LANAP sets us apart and emphasizes our commitment to cutting-edge dental solutions that prioritize patient comfort and effective outcomes. Moreover, our approach to dental care is deeply personalized, reflecting over 30 years of community trust and a dedication to transforming dental experiences in Columbia, Maryland. Schedule your LANAP consultation and experience firsthand the unique benefits our practice offers.