Will LANAP Save My Teeth
Although having LANAP performed to correct gum disease does not guarantee that you will be able to save your teeth, the procedure has a very high success rate and will likely halt the progression of gum disease for most patients. Prior to performing LANAPA, it will be important to determine what caused the gum disease to develop in the first place and address any underlying issues to prevent further issues from developing. Also, please keep in mind that while LANAP may halt the progression of gum disease, it will still be necessary to practice good oral hygiene habits following your LANAP procedure to ensure that gum disease does not return. This means brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular periodontal exams/cleanings at least every six months.
How is LANAP Different Thant Traditional Treatments?
Prior to advancements in dental technology, advanced gum disease was corrected by performing osseous surgery. This procedure involves cutting the gums with a scalpel then folding the gums back in order to access the bone around the teeth. Next, the damaged bone is reshaped and grafting material is placed. Finally, the periodontal pockets are cut to a depth of 3mm, and the gums are sutured shut. While this 70 year old technique is still performed and has a high success rate, it is much more invasive than LANAP, and carries potential side effects, such as tooth sensitivity and gum line recession.
LANAP surgery eliminates the need for scalpels and sutures and corrects gum disease by inserting laser fiber between the gum and tooth and targeting the areas of inflammation without impacting the healthy gum tissue. The LANAP procedure is painless and highly effective in halting the progression of gum disease.
Unique Benefits of LANAP
LANAP may be recommended as part of your treatment plan for a variety of reasons due to the many unique benefits associated with this procedure. One of the biggest benefits of LANAP is that the laser is able to precisely target the damaged tissue, while leaving the surrounding healthy bone and tissue completely unimpacted. The procedure is also less invasive than other treatment options, which means you will be more comfortable during the procedure and will have a faster and less uncomfortable recovery period.
In the process of destroying the diseased tissue, LANAP will also activate proteins that are known as “growth factors” due to the fact that they stimulate and promote the regeneration of tissue and bone cells. Thanks to these growth factors and the elimination of the diseased tissue, your gums can become healthy again and you can avoid having subsequent procedures, such as tooth extractions or dental implants.
While LANAP can be a highly effective treatment for halting the progression of periodontal disease, it will be necessary for you to follow good self-care practices following your procedure. Failing to do so will increase your risk of developing gum disease again, which may result in more serious issues developing, such as the loss of teeth.