As a prosthodontist, Dr. Khodakhast, DDS, specializes in rebuilding the structure, health, and function of the teeth and the supportive tissues surrounding them.
She uses the latest technologies, like LANAP® laser surgery, to treat conditions like periodontal disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is linked to illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, stroke, and COPD. Treating it early can prevent these complications.
Key Takeaways
- LANAP® is a minimally invasive laser treatment for moderate to severe gum disease.
- It offers a gentle and precise alternative to traditional periodontal surgery.
- The procedure typically requires two appointments, one week apart.
- LANAP® minimizes pain, bleeding, and swelling with no downtime.
- It preserves healthy gum tissue and reduces the risk of infection.
- The treatment promotes true tissue regeneration and gum reattachment.
- It is FDA-cleared and safe for medically compromised patients.
- LANAP® avoids the use of scalpels, incisions, and sutures.
- The procedure supports the regeneration of cementum, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone.
- Suitable for both adults and children, it helps reduce dental anxiety.
An Alternative to Conventional Periodontal Surgery
LANAP is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe gum disease. Gum disease is characterized by inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues and varying degrees of bone loss. The disease starts as inflammation (gingivitis) and can develop into early, moderate, and advanced periodontitis.
Traditional procedures to treat gum disease involve using cutting instruments, such as scalpels, and techniques like incisions and sutures. These approaches are invasive and carry greater risks of undesirable side effects and complications, such as pain, swelling, and excessive bleeding.
LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a less invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. It’s low-risk, gentle, and precise, targeting diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue untouched.
LANAP prevents common triggers and sources of dental anxiety and fear, such as scalpels. This feature makes laser-assisted periodontal therapy a great option for all patients, including adults and pediatrics.
Candidates for this No Cut, No Sew, No Fear Approach
LANAP® is the only laser-assisted protocol to be cleared by the FDA for true regeneration. It supports healing and regenerates new cementum, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone.
Other systems and protocols are designed to repair diseased tissues, not to regenerate and restore them to their normal structure and function. LANAP rebuilds tissues without using foreign materials, which may be associated with adverse reactions or sensitivities.
This minimally invasive, high-tech approach is:
- Biologic-free
- Free of growth factors
- Graft-less
- Free of foreign membranes
It does not require the introduction of scaffolds or the closure of incisions with sutures or stitches (there is no cutting, after all!).
The LANAP Procedure
We will first determine your suitability for treatment. A specialized instrument called a periodontal probe may be used to pinpoint the depth of the periodontal pockets between the gums and the teeth. As gum disease progresses, these spaces or pockets grow larger.
As a full-mouth procedure, two appointments are usually necessary to complete your treatment. Generally, we ask that you set aside around two to four hours (based on intensity of the condition) for each procedure.
During the first appointment, one side of the mouth is treated. The laser is directed to the diseased tissues where it selectively destroys harmful bacteria and toxins. It also has the ability to remove hardened plaque (calculus or tartar) from the root surfaces.
We treat the other side of the mouth during your return visit, typically scheduled no later than one week after the initial treatment.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
One of the many benefits of LANAP is that it’s a “no-downtime” procedure. Side effects are typically limited to mild discomfort and soreness at the treatment site. These effects largely subside within one to two days following your appointment. We can advise on medications and other ways to help with any discomfort in the meantime.
We will provide directions on what to eat and how to care for your teeth and gums as they heal and tissues regenerate.
During follow-up visits, your bite may need adjustment as your gums heal and teeth shift. We may suggest oral splints to stabilize your teeth, which should be worn as directed to help healing.
The teeth should also be professionally cleaned at three-month intervals (instead of the “standard” six months) for at least the first year after completion of LANAP treatment. Then, we can advise on the best long-term oral hygiene routine to address your needs and situation.
Benefits of LANAP Laser Dentistry
As a LANAP patient, you can keep your teeth and restore the comfort and healthy function of your gums in the most efficient, fear-free, and low-stress way possible.
LANAP:
- minimizes pain
- is associated with minimal bleeding and swelling
- eases sensitivity
- preserves maximal soft tissue
- requires little downtime after treatment
- is associated with a low risk of infections
- is cleared for “true” periodontal regeneration
- supports fast and comfortable healing
- doesn’t require antibiotics (avoids antibiotic resistance)
- is safe for “medically-compromised” patients, such as those on blood thinners or who are diabetic
- is a precise and minimally invasive treatment
Laser Gum Disease Treatment in Centennial, CO
If you notice changes in your gums and teeth, contact Argyle Dental & Prosthodontics. Our expertise and advanced tools can help improve your gum health and overall dental care.
If you are searching for ‘LANAP treatment near me’ we can help. Call (303) 770-2254 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. Our office in Centennial, CO is conveniently located in Arapahoe County, just 5 miles from Douglas County.
FAQs About LANAP Laser Dentistry
Yes, LANAP is an effective treatment for gum disease. It is the only laser-assisted protocol cleared by the FDA for true regeneration, which means it not only removes diseased tissue but also promotes the regeneration of healthy tissue, including new cementum, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Many patients experience significant improvements in gum health and a reduction in periodontal pockets after undergoing LANAP.
LANAP is primarily used to treat moderate to severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. It targets and removes the diseased tissue and bacteria that cause the inflammation and infection while preserving healthy tissue. Additionally, LANAP is used for the regeneration of lost bone and gum tissue, offering a less invasive and more comfortable alternative to traditional periodontal surgery.
The LANAP procedure is designed to be minimally invasive and is generally well-tolerated by patients. Most patients report little to no pain during the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, and any discomfort experienced post-procedure is typically mild and short-lived. Patients usually experience less pain, swelling, and bleeding compared to traditional gum surgery.
The results of the LANAP procedure can be long-lasting, especially when combined with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. The regeneration of healthy tissue and bone can provide a stable foundation for your teeth, helping to maintain the health and function of your gums. However, the longevity of the results also depends on factors such as patient’s commitment to oral care.
LANAP typically requires only local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. In most cases, sedation is not necessary. However, for patients who experience dental anxiety or for more extensive treatments, sedation options may be available and can be discussed with your dentist.
LANAP is highly effective in treating and managing periodontitis. LANAP stops disease progression by removing infected tissue, eradicating bacteria, and promoting healthy tissue regeneration. It targets the underlying causes of periodontitis, such as bacteria and inflammation, thereby reducing periodontal pockets and supporting the healing and reattachment of the gums to the teeth. With proper post-treatment care, LANAP can significantly improve gum health and reduce the risk of further periodontal problems.
