LANAP

LANAP or “Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure” involves the use of a laser to treat periodontitis and regenerate bone, ligaments and gums. LANAP is the no cut, no sew, laser alternative to traditional gum surgery.
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Our practice offers a minimally invasive periodontal surgery procedure called the LANAP protocol. The LANAP protocol is the only laser periodontitis treatment scientifically and clinically proven to regenerate both soft tissue and bone, with FDA clearance for True Regeneration. 

Gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the tissue and bone around the teeth. If left untreated, the disease can lead to receding gums, loss of bone, and ultimately tooth loss.

Our doctors receive intensive training in the LANAP protocol by the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry. The LANAP protocol is the only laser periodontitis treatment scientifically and clinically proven to regenerate both soft tissue and bone, with FDA clearance for True Regeneration. This gentle laser treatment is performed in our practice with the only laser specifically designed for the LANAP protocol - the PerioLase MVP-7.

Research has shown the PerioLase Nd:YAG wavelength stimulates the release of growth factors, allowing the body to heal naturally.

Minimally Invasive

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The width of the surgical laser fiber tip is equivalent to the width of about three human hairs.

Can the LANAP protocol help my loose dental implants?

Yes! Using the PerioLase MVP-7, we can often save ailing or failing implants using the LAPIP protocol. We use the same laser, but different laser settings and light exposure to help your implant stabilize while destroying periodontal pathogens and endotoxins.

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Who is a candidate for LANAP laser surgery?

Patients with moderate-to-severe gum disease can especially benefit from the LANAP protocol. The LANAP protocol is also an excellent treatment option for patients who are fearful of conventional scalpel surgery and patients taking certain medications, such as blood thinners. With the LANAP protocol, patients do not have to stop taking any medications.
 

What about patient discomfort and recovery versus conventional surgery?

Some of the primary benefits of LANAP laser surgery as compared to traditional cut-and-sew surgery are:

  • Less pain
  • Less bleeding
  • Less sensitivity
  • Less gum loss
  • Less swelling
  • Very little downtime after treatment
  • Less Post-op infections
  • Promotes regeneration of supporting gum tissues
  • Healing is perceived to be faster and more comfortable than conventional surgery
     
What is the cost of the LANAP treatment?

Your individual cost will depend upon a number of variables, and we will try to create a financial arrangement that is appropriate for you.

The health risks of gum disease go far beyond the loss of teeth. There is a connection between gum disease and a number of serious medical conditions. People with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease, and have nearly twice the risk of having a fatal heart attack. Gum disease has also been linked to other health problems, including respiratory disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, certain cancers, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, erectile dysfunction, HPV, and pregnancy complications.

LANAP - Before and After

X-rays showing bone improvement:

 

 

LANAP Protocol - What to Expect

LANAP periodontal surgery is a full-mouth procedure usually completed in two 2-hour visits. We complete one side of the mouth during the first visit, and complete the other side on the second visit. Surgeries are usually scheduled within one to seven days of one another. It is common to quickly return to work or other activities.

What to Expect: The First Few Days

You may experience mild aching, throbbing, and soreness of the treated areas for the first couple days - this can be helped with mild pain medications. The tissue around the teeth may appear discoloured. Your bite may feel slightly different, but the teeth will adapt. You cannot brush or floss for the first 7-10 days after treatment, and you will need to follow a liquid or mushy diet. Smoking decreases results for all gum treatments, including LANAP treatment.

What to Expect: Follow-up Care

As the gums heal, the teeth will shift, and your bite will need to be adjusted several times over the coming months. Splints may be fabricated to stabilise and immobilise the teeth. It is important that you wear these splints as instructed to promote healing. Expect to have your teeth professionally cleaned every three months for at least the first year, and then as recommended by your Periodontist.

LANAP Protocol - Surgery & Follow-up Treatment

Below is a sample treatment plan, your treatment plan may vary based on case severity and healing response.

Post-Op Visit: Week 1

  • Bite adjustments and healing management
  • No brushing
  • No flossing or use of electric toothbrush
  • Very soft 'mushy' diet days 3-10

Post-Op Visit: Month 1

  • Light cleaning/polishing
  • Wear splints every night; wear during day when possible (variable)
  • Continued bite adjustments and healing management
  • Resume brushing and flossing
  • Resume normal diet

Post-Op Visit: Month 4

  • Periodontal maintenance
  • Continued bite adjustments and healing management
  • Continue good brushing and flossing

Post-Op Visit: Month 7 & 10

  • Checkup and periodontal maintenance
  • Continued bite adjustments and healing maintenance

1 Year (13 Month) Re-Evaluation

  • Full periodontal charting and X-rays
  • Periodontal maintenance
  • Continued bite adjustments and healing maintenance
  • Impressions for LANAP guard (variable)
  • Access possible areas requiring re-treatment
  • Discuss direction of future treatment, including any recommended restorative, cosmetic, or orthodontic care