If you’ve been told you have gum disease, you may already be facing a difficult decision: which treatment is the right one for you? Two of the most common options periodontists recommend are scaling and root planing (SRP) and LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure). Both are proven, effective treatments for periodontal disease, but they differ significantly in approach, recovery, and the types of cases they address best. Understanding those differences can help you have a more informed conversation with your periodontist.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., our team of board-certified periodontists, including Dr. Matei and Dr. Peto, has helped patients across New Jersey navigate exactly this decision. With deep expertise in both traditional and laser-based therapies, we take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring every patient receives care that fits their specific diagnosis, health history, and lifestyle.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is one of the most well-established non-surgical treatments for chronic gum disease. Often called a “deep cleaning,” SRP involves two key steps: scaling removes plaque and tartar buildup from tooth surfaces and below the gumline, while root planing smooths out rough areas on the root surfaces to discourage bacteria from reattaching. According to the American Dental Association, scaling and root planing are widely used treatments to help manage and prevent the progression of gum disease.
SRP is typically the first line of defense for patients with mild to moderate periodontitis. It requires no surgery and is performed under local anesthesia, making it a highly accessible option for many patients.
Who Is a Good Candidate for SRP?
SRP tends to work best for patients in the early stages of periodontal disease. You may be a good candidate if you have moderate pocket depths, respond well to non-surgical approaches, or are seeking a more conservative first treatment before exploring other options.
What Is LANAP?
LANAP, or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive laser therapy designed to treat moderate to severe periodontitis. Rather than using scalpels or sutures, LANAP uses a specialized Nd:YAG laser to selectively target and remove infected gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. The laser also stimulates the regeneration of bone and connective tissue damaged by gum disease. Our gum disease treatment approach incorporates this technology to deliver precise, effective results with minimal disruption to the patient’s daily routine.
LANAP is widely regarded as one of the most patient-friendly options available for treating advanced periodontal disease. Most patients experience significantly less discomfort, swelling, and downtime compared to traditional surgery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for LANAP?
LANAP may be the preferred choice when gum disease has progressed to a more advanced stage. Candidates often include patients who have:
- Moderate to severe periodontal pockets that have not responded adequately to SRP alone
- Significant bone loss around the teeth
- A preference for minimally invasive treatment with a faster recovery
- Medical conditions that make traditional surgical approaches higher-risk
A thorough evaluation by a periodontist is the only way to confirm which treatment path is appropriate for your case.
How Do the Two Treatments Compare?
Both SRP and LANAP are proven methods for addressing periodontal disease, but they serve different purposes in the treatment spectrum. SRP is typically the starting point, addressing early-stage disease by mechanically removing deposits. LANAP takes a more targeted approach, using laser energy to both eliminate infection and promote tissue regeneration in more advanced cases. Our advanced technology enables us to deliver LANAP with the precision and consistency patients need to achieve lasting results.
Recovery time also differs. SRP patients generally experience mild tenderness for a day or two, while LANAP patients often report minimal discomfort and return to normal activities quickly, even without stitches.
Schedule a Consultation at Advanced Periodontics of N.J.
This blog has outlined the key differences between scaling and root planing and LANAP, two of the most effective treatments for gum disease available today. Understanding what each procedure involves, how they compare, and what makes someone a good candidate can help you feel more prepared when speaking with a specialist. The periodontists on our team, Dr. Matei and Dr. Peto, bring exceptional credentials and clinical experience to every patient evaluation, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs.
If you are experiencing signs of gum disease or have been referred to a specialist, we encourage you to take the next step. Advanced Periodontics of N.J. serves patients across New Jersey from multiple convenient locations. Contact us today by calling our office or using our contact form to request your consultation and get the specialized periodontal care you deserve.
