LANAP

LANAP© is a laser technique for treating periodontal disease using the Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc. PerioLase© Laser.

Fear of periodontal treatment vanishes when patients find out no scalpel or sutures will be used. Patient-friendly laser treatment gets patients to agree to the treatment they need and continue with the follow-up care that is prescribed.

Our office was one of the first in the area to offer Laser Periodontal Therapy™ for the treatment of gingivitis and/or periodontitis. The following are commonly asked questions about this technology.

How does it work?

Tartar, associated with inflamed and bleeding gums, is removed from the root surface of the tooth using an ultrasonic scaler and small instruments.

Then, a small amount of light energy from a laser is directed through a tiny fiber, which is gently placed between the gum and tooth. This light energy removes a tiny amount of diseased tissue and aids in reducing the bacteria associated with the disease. After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally.

Does it hurt?

Although the procedure itself can be virtually painless, we anesthetize the area for the patient’s comfort. In this way, we can precisely direct the laser for treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is typically minimal and of short duration.

How long does it take?

Initial treatment is focused on scaling and the use of small instruments to remove the tartar. Then, the laser portion of the treatment is performed and normally only takes a few minutes. Depending on the severity of the patient’s periodontal disease treatment may be accomplished in one office visit or in multiple visits. The estimated treatment time is reviewed with patients when we discuss their treatment plan.

Does this treatment cost more than traditional gum surgery?

Typically, the laser treatment is generally no more expensive than traditional surgery and often times, less expensive since no additional barrier membranes, bone graft materials or growth factors are required. There are other factors which may affect the cost, such as the severity of the periodontal disease, and how many teeth are involved.

The dramatically increased comfort for our patients made the new system attractive to our office. We do encourage patients to take care of the need now to reduce further damage to their gums, teeth and bone.

For more information, including newscasts, press releases and research, please visit the website of Millennium Dental Technologies.