If a patient has been diagnosed with periodontal disease and referred to a periodontist, then Lanap is an excellent procedure with great results and recovery time. Just like conventional treatment, the professional will clean the areas under your gum lines to remove the calcified deposits (or plaque as it is commonly called). Then, the gum surgeon uses the Lanap laser in a systematic way around each of the infected teeth in order to disinfect or sterilize the area and get rid of any remaining bacteria. Laser gum surgery is a quick procedure. However, some patients are usually anxious when they think about any medical procedure because of uncertainty. For patients who require something to calm their nerves, we offer sedation options.
Laser Gum Surgery Process
Step 1: The LANAP procedure ensures the Nd:YAG laser enters your affected periodontal pockets to get rid of the plaque containing bacteria and the diseased inflammatory tissues.
Step 2: With successful removal of all the diseased inflammatory tissue and bacteria, attention turns to the root surface. This step involves the root surface with hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers.
Step 3: The laser stimulates hemorrhage or bleeding into the freed periodontal pockets. It then accelerates and stabilizes blood clot thereby preventing bacteria from re-entering the pockets.
Step 4: The laser periodontal surgeon then makes a bite adjustment by the use of a dental drill to make minor reshaping of the enamel. This stabilizes your teeth for a perfect bite.
Step 5: The last step involves regeneration. Connective tissue reattachment and bone regeneration occur. The process of full regeneration will take 6 months to 1 year depending on the extent of damage and your health status.
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Lanap Recovery
This procedure does not require recovery time and patients can return to their normal routine following the procedure.
- To prevent further infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
- Pain can be managed with over the counter prescriptions such as ibuprofen.
- Soft diet is necessary to not disturb the treatment site. Ex: smoothies, soup, and ice cream.
- Proper oral hygiene- Brushing, flossing and mouthwash. During the healing process your hygiene routine will need to be gentle around the treatment site.
- Inflammation is a common response by the body’s natural healing process. Using an ice pack will help control the swelling, 10 minutes on 20 minutes off for the first 48 hours will make a big difference.
Laser Gum Specialists
Another important step is to see your dentist as regularly as possible. During these checkups, the dentist will examine your gums and teeth thoroughly and treat any early symptoms of gum disease before it spreads to periodontists. Laser gum surgery, aka Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is the latest treatment option for people with periodontitis. North Texas Dental Surgery offers complimentary consultations and 3D scans, why not explore your options for a new smile? Visit our office in Grapevine Texas today.
