LANAP
What to Expect
One of the newest and most exciting developments in treating periodontal disease is the PerioLase™ for the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP™). Put simply, a laser is used to regenerate diseased and damaged tissue, capitalizing on the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.
How Does LANAP Work?
The laser therapy uses digitally controlled pulses to send an exact amount of energy to treat the dead tissue. When the laser destroys the diseased lining of the periodontal pockets, your tooth roots are thoroughly cleaned with ultrasonic scalers or traditional handheld instruments. The effect triggers the tissues around your teeth (gum, bone, cementum, ligament) to regenerate and re-attach to the bone.
Why is LANAP Necessary?
In some cases, gum disease has advanced to a stage where an infection in the gum tissue has spread to the bones around your teeth. Left untreated, gum disease, or periodontal disease, can cause your teeth to become loose, or can even cause total tooth loss.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
What starts out as mild inflammation – gingivitis – can progress into chronically inflamed and infected gums, known as periodontal disease. The bacteria in plaque builds up on the teeth and collects in the gum pockets. This not only triggers a cascading and deteriorating effect on the gum and bone, but can also lead to severe tooth decay, sensitivity, and generalized mouth pain. Causes of gum disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Illness
- Hormonal changes
- Medications that reduce the flow of saliva
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Genetic susceptibility
- Clenching and grinding your teeth
- Age
- Stress
Research indicates that the bacteria living within these infected sites are linked to strokes, respiratory disease, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, pre-term delivery, low birthweight babies and cancer.
Benefits of LANAP
The benefits of this cutting-edge procedure include little to no discomfort as well as:
No needles or knives!
No post operative pain
Minimally invasive
Less expensive than bone grafting
Success Relies on You
Your diligent attention to your at-home oral care routine is the determining factor in the longevity of the LANAP’s success. Gum disease can return if regular professional cleanings are not maintained in addition to your daily brushing and flossing habits.
LANAP In Corte Madera, California
Does the idea of pain-free treatment for advanced gum disease sound appealing to you? We are thrilled to offer our patients this cost effective option. Call us today at 415-927-4000 for a complimentary consultation.
