Anita Purohit, Dentist
Advanced Dental Technologies

LANAP stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. A less painful, shorter recovery time, and better overall outcome for treating gum disease. This is a new way of treating gum disease (periodontitis).  This treatment method targets all the causes of gum disease: systemic, local, and individual. It involves the use of oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, and disinfecting the pockets by using a specific laser-- Periolase 7, a Nd: Yag free running laser.  The light energy (laser) is first used to remove only the infected layer of tissue in the pocket.  Then, the tooth is cleaned using a device that uses sound energy and hand instruments as needed.  Next, the light energy is re-introduced into the pocket, this time to clot the blood and encourage new bone to be deposited. Finally, the teeth are adjusted so as to not disturb the new bone formation.

 

Does it hurt? No, because you will be numb.

 

Does it hurt afterwards? You will feel like you had some treatment done--your jaw may be sore or tired-- but nothing that will keeps you from enjoying life.

 

How long does it take? The procedure takes 2 hours for the first half of your mouth and then another 2 hours a week later for the other half.  After the initial treatment, there will be check up appointments the first month to make sure you are comfortable and that the healing is taking place as it should.  After the active treatment phase, it is best to have recare appointments every 3 months to maintain your gum health.