According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adult Americans suffer from periodontal gum disease. Without proper care, this condition can lead to oral pain, tooth loss, and even jawbone disintegration. While surgical intervention restores gum health, some patients shy away from the scalpel. Fortunately, the innovative, FDA-approved LANAP® protocol provides a non-surgical solution. This minimally invasive procedure uses lasers to stop gum disease and to re-grow lost bone and tissue. If you’re interested in learning more about this periodontal treatment, below is a helpful FAQ.

A Guide to the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP)

1. What Does the Process Entail?

LANAP uses a special dental laser to regenerate growth in the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and new cementum, which are often afflicted by gum disease. It also combats infection and illness without impacting the tissue. The trained LANAP dentists will typically administer local anesthesia before the procedure, which ensures the patient does not feel any pain throughout the process.

2. What Is the Recovery Period Like?

Compared to traditional gum surgery LANAP procedure patients have less pain, less bleeding, less swelling, less tissue removed, less down time, and less recovery time which is decidedly less costly to you and your employer.

3. What if You Fail to Treat Gum Disease With LANAP?

Without help from this procedure or surgical intervention, patients may suffer from pain as well as difficulty speaking, chewing, and eating normally. Unlike gingivitis, periodontal disease—the more advanced stage of gum disease—cannot be treated without intervention to reverse gum and bone loss. The vital oral tissue and bone will not regenerate on its own.   

4. Who Should Get LANAP?

Individuals with moderate to advanced stages of gum disease may benefit from the LANAP procedure. Those who dislike surgical methods particularly benefit from the improved comfort and reduced recovery time the process offers. If you have periodontal disease, talk to your dental care professional about whether it’s right for you.

If you’re interested in overcoming gum disease, consult the trained LANAP dentists at Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, in Rochester, NY. As one of only two LANAP-certified professionals in the area, locals frequently look to the experienced team to attain the healthy smiles and oral health they deserve. To learn more about how the dentists can support you, visit the website. To schedule an appointment, call the office today at (585) 247-7110.