LANAP therapy offers a breakthrough approach to treating gum disease without the scalpels, sutures, and extended recovery periods associated with traditional surgery. This FDA-cleared laser protocol targets diseased tissue while preserving healthy gums, providing patients with an effective alternative when scaling and root planing alone cannot control periodontal disease.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., we’ve incorporated LANAP therapy into our treatment options for patients facing moderate to advanced gum disease. Dr. Peto and Dr. Matei bring extensive training in both traditional and laser-based periodontal procedures, with Dr. Matei earning LANAP certification in 2024. Her background includes teaching positions at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, ensuring patients receive care grounded in current research and clinical evidence.
Understanding How LANAP Works
The LANAP protocol uses the PerioLase MVP-7, a dental laser operating at a wavelength designed to target diseased tissue. This laser can distinguish between healthy and diseased gum tissue based on color differences. Healthy pink gums reflect the laser light, while darker, inflamed tissue absorbs the energy. This selectivity allows precise removal of infected tissue without damaging surrounding healthy structures.
During treatment, the laser fiber enters the periodontal pocket between your tooth and gum. The laser energy vaporizes bacteria, diseased tissue, and calcified deposits on the tooth root. It also removes the infected pocket lining, perpetuating inflammation. After removing diseased material, we use an ultrasonic scaler to clean the tooth surface, then pass the laser through the pocket again at a different setting. This second pass creates a stable blood clot and stimulates bone regeneration.
The laser’s thermal effect also seals blood vessels and nerve endings, reducing bleeding and post-procedure discomfort. According to the American Dental Association, chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States and can lead to loss of tissue and bone supporting the teeth. LANAP provides an option for these patients seeking alternatives to conventional surgical approaches.
Comparing LANAP to Traditional Gum Surgery
Traditional periodontal surgery involves making incisions in your gums to create flap access to diseased bone and tissue. The periodontist removes infected material, reshapes bone, and sutures the gums back in place. This approach effectively treats advanced disease but requires cutting through healthy tissue to reach affected areas. Recovery involves swelling, discomfort, and dietary restrictions while incisions heal.
LANAP eliminates the need for scalpels and sutures. The laser accesses diseased areas without cutting through gum tissue, preserving the natural gum line. Most patients report minimal pain during and after the procedure, often requiring only over-the-counter pain medication, if any at all. You can typically eat normally the same day, though we recommend softer foods initially to avoid disturbing the treatment sites. Recovery time differs significantly between approaches, with LANAP patients often returning to work the same day or the next day.
The LANAP Treatment Process
Your LANAP treatment begins with a comprehensive examination, including periodontal measurements documenting pocket depths around each tooth. We also take X-rays to assess bone levels and identify areas of bone loss. This information helps us plan your treatment and provides baseline measurements for tracking improvement.
The actual LANAP procedure typically occurs over two appointments scheduled about one week apart. During the first session, we treat one side of your mouth, allowing you to chew comfortably on the untreated side between visits. We begin by administering local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Once numb, we insert the laser fiber into each periodontal pocket, carefully removing diseased tissue and bacteria. After the laser pass, we use ultrasonic instruments to remove loosened tartar from tooth roots. The laser then makes a second pass to create the fibrin clot and stimulate tissue regeneration. Finally, we gently compress the gums against the teeth, allowing them to reattach in a healthier position.
Who Benefits From LANAP Therapy
LANAP works well for patients with moderate to severe gum disease who haven’t responded adequately to scaling and root planing. If your periodontal pockets measure 5mm or deeper, you likely have disease requiring more aggressive intervention than routine cleanings provide. LANAP offers an effective option before the disease progresses to the point where tooth loss becomes inevitable.
Patients concerned about surgery often find LANAP appealing. The minimally invasive nature addresses the anxiety that many people feel about traditional periodontal surgery. Those with busy schedules appreciate the reduced recovery time, avoiding extended time away from work or other responsibilities. People taking blood thinners or with certain medical conditions complicating traditional surgery may find LANAP a safer alternative, though individual assessment remains necessary. The treatment particularly benefits patients who want to preserve their natural teeth by controlling disease and stimulating bone regeneration.
Begin Your LANAP Treatment at Advanced Periodontics of N.J.
Gum disease requires professional treatment to prevent progressive damage to your teeth’s supporting structures. LANAP therapy provides an effective, minimally invasive option for patients seeking alternatives to traditional surgery. Dr. Peto and Dr. Matei combine training with advanced technology to deliver care addressing your periodontal needs. Dr. Matei’s achievements include a Fulbright Junior Scholarship and the Educator Award for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring in Periodontics from the American Academy of Periodontics.
During your consultation, we’ll perform a comprehensive periodontal examination, including pocket measurements and x-rays to assess disease severity. This evaluation determines whether LANAP represents the appropriate treatment approach for your condition. We’ll explain the procedure in detail, answer your questions, and discuss what you can expect during treatment and recovery. We operate on a fee-for-service basis with multiple payment options, including financing for more extensive procedures. Take the first step toward healthier gums by contacting our office to schedule your evaluation.
