LAPIP Washington DC & Alexandria VA
LAPIP Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Laser Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure (LAPIP) is a modified version of the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) protocol that is used to treat peri-implantitis. Unlike traditional treatment options for peri-implantitis, which involves reflecting the gums for a graft, or removing and replacing the implant entirely, LAPIP provides a less painful and less invasive alternative. LAPIP is performed using a laser that is specially calibrated to destroy diseased tissue in a manner that is both minimally invasive and practically painless. As a result, patients who receive LAPIP have a much faster recovery period.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about LAPIP, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Dr. Alkakhan
Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.
Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Lakkis
Dr. Dima Lakkis earned her DDS with honors in 2006 and completed her Periodontics training and Master of Science at Case Western Reserve. She is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Lakkis provides a full range of periodontal and implant treatments, with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. She is an active member of several dental organizations and has published in the Journal of Periodontology on the link between periodontal and systemic health.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.
What is Peri-implantitis?
Unlike periodontitis, which involves gum disease and associated symptoms that have developed in your teeth, peri-implantitis involves gum recession, inflammation, and bone loss occurring around a dental implant. Peri- implantitis typically develops due to complications from certain diseases, or more commonly, due to poor oral hygiene and self-care. Regardless of the reason, peri-implantitis results in pocket depths around the dental implants becoming too deep, which allows for bacteria to accumulate, which in turn causes tartar and plaque to develop. When this occurs, gums will begin to bleed, swell, and recede. If left untreated long enough, peri-implantitis can eventually result in the deterioration of the jawbone. If patients reach this point, they will likely need to consider a dental bone graft followed by another dental implant.
As is the case with periodontitis, peri-implantitis puts patients at an increased risk of developing severe health issues, such as pancreatic cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. If you have been diagnosed with or suspect you may have peri-implantitis, it is critical to have the issue addressed and a LAPIP procedure scheduled as soon as possible so you can return your teeth to a healthy state.
LAPIP Procedure Expectations
The LAPIP procedure will begin with an initial evaluation to determine the extent of the tissue damage. If necessary, X-rays will be taken and a determination will be made as to whether or not antibiotics can correct the infection or if LAPIP is necessary. If it is determined that you have reached a more advanced stage of the disease and LAPIP is required, treatment will begin (if necessary) with administration of a local anesthetic. Next, the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and the laser light will remove the gum tissue that has become diseased. Next, any tartar that has accumulated along the roots of the tooth will be removed using ultrasonic scalers. The laser will then be used to heat up the blood in the pocket, which creates a seal that will disinfect and protect this corrected pocket from plaque and germs. As an added benefit, the laser will naturally stimulate the stem cells, which in turn will facilitate the formation of more bone, connective tissue, and collagen. Finally, your implant will be cleaned by the laser, creating a smooth surface that will facilitate the healing process.
Aftercare for LAPIP
Following your LAPIP procedure it will not be necessary to follow special aftercare instructions, although it is important to be aware of the reason this procedure was needed in the first place. Patients who develop peri-implantitis typically do so due to poor oral hygiene habits and/or not scheduling regular periodontal maintenance. To help ensure you keep your teeth and implants health, continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss twice daily, and schedule regular visits to your periodontist to ensure that your teeth receive regular professional cleanings, which will reduce your risk of developing peri-implantitis in the future. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come.
LAPIP Cost
There are a range of factors that can impact the final cost of this procedure, such as the severity of your case, any associated procedures that will need to be performed prior to or along with this procedure, as well as your insurance plan.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.
For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office, you can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.
Providing you with Optimal Care
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.
To schedule your appointment for LAPIP, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!