LANAP LASER DENTISTRY
Am I a Candidate for LANAP?
Understanding Gum Disease Stages
Gum disease progresses through stages, and understanding where you are on that spectrum helps determine whether LANAP is appropriate for you. Stage I (Gingivitis) affects only the gum tissue and is fully reversible with professional cleaning. Stages II through IV involve increasing bone loss and deeper periodontal pockets.
LANAP is most effective for moderate to severe periodontal disease (Stages II-IV), where pocket depths measure 4mm or greater and bone loss is visible on X-rays. The earlier gum disease is treated, the better the outcomes. If you have any signs, schedule a consultation for a comprehensive evaluation.
Ideal Candidates for LANAP
You may be an ideal candidate if you have been diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontal disease, been told you need traditional gum surgery, or are looking for a less invasive option with proven bone regeneration. Patients who are concerned about gum recession or need rapid recovery also benefit greatly from LANAP.
LANAP for Anxious Patients
Dental anxiety is a significant reason some patients avoid treatment. LANAP can be an excellent option because there is no scalpel, no sutures, and the sensory experience is gentler than traditional surgery. Each session takes about 2 hours, and being back to normal within 24 hours means less time to worry about the procedure.
LANAP for Patients with Medical Conditions
One significant advantage of LANAP is its safety and effectiveness for patients with conditions that might make traditional surgery risky.
Patients on Blood Thinners
Whether you take warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulants, LANAP is safer than traditional surgery. The laser cauterizes blood vessels, creating a stable clot and minimizing bleeding.
Diabetic Patients
Diabetes makes gum disease more severe and slows healing. LANAP helps control the oral infection driving the disease, which is crucial for managing diabetes effectively.
Heart Conditions
The stress and trauma of traditional surgery can be problematic for cardiac patients. LANAP's minimally invasive nature reduces surgical stress on the cardiovascular system.
HIV-Positive Patients
LANAP is effective for immunocompromised patients and does not require general anesthesia, reducing overall health risks during treatment.
Compromised Immune Systems
The minimally invasive approach means less risk of infection and faster healing for patients with autoimmune conditions or other immune system challenges.
Not Sure? Ask Us
Every patient is unique. During your consultation, we evaluate your complete health history to determine if LANAP is the best option for you. Learn about cost and financing.
Signs You May Need LANAP Treatment
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing are an early sign of periodontal disease that should not be ignored.
Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may indicate bacterial infection below the gumline.
If your teeth appear longer than they used to, your gums may be receding due to bone loss from periodontal disease.
Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position indicate advanced bone loss requiring prompt treatment.
Discomfort during meals can signal deep periodontal pockets and infection around tooth roots.
Inflammation and pus between teeth and gums are signs of active infection. Regular deep cleanings and checkups are crucial for early detection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth. A comprehensive dental exam with periodontal probing and X-rays provides a definitive diagnosis.
Can LANAP help if I've already lost teeth?
LANAP treats remaining teeth and can help preserve bone for future dental implants. It's often used alongside implant planning.
Is there an age limit for LANAP?
There's no strict age limit. LANAP has been successfully performed on patients from their 20s to their 80s. Overall health is more important than age.
What if I'm on blood thinners?
LANAP is one of the safest periodontal treatments for patients on blood thinners because the laser cauterizes as it works, significantly reducing bleeding.
Do I need a referral for LANAP?
No referral is needed. You can schedule a consultation directly with our office to determine if LANAP is right for you.
