Out With the Old and In With the New (Attachment)

Oral health is essential for our overall well-being, and one common dental issue many people face is gum recession and gum disease. These conditions can cause discomfort, aesthetic concerns, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Traditionally, treatments for gum recession and gum disease have involved invasive procedures. However, a groundbreaking technique known as Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative. In this article, we will compare and contrast traditional treatments with LANAP, highlighting the benefits of this FDA-approved procedure that utilizes the Millennium Dental Technologies MVP-7 laser.

Traditional Gum Recession and Gum Disease Treatments

Over the years, researchers and dental professionals have developed many proven techniques to help treat gum disease and gum recession, though it is true that none remains as successful as preventing periodontal issues from occurring in the first place using proper hygiene.  2 of the most common, most highly favored treatment options utilized today are Scaling and Root Planing and Gum Grafting treatments.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure often recommended for early-stage gum disease. It involves deep cleaning the root surfaces to remove plaque and tartar and smooth out rough areas. While effective, this method may require multiple visits and can be uncomfortable for patients due to the use of hand instruments.

Gum Grafting

In cases of severe gum recession, gum grafting is a common treatment. This surgical procedure involves placing tissue from one area of the mouth to the affected area to ultimately reduce the amount of recession after the grafted tissue heals. While gum grafting can restore gum tissue, it requires incisions and sutures, resulting in post-operative discomfort and a longer recovery period.

LANAP: A Minimally Invasive Option

Though successful and time tested, both scaling and root planning have their drawbacks at times, not the least of which is the level of invasiveness involved leading to longer recovery times for patients.  Now, thanks to advances in laser technology, there is a technique being utilized by Dr. Janu and her team here at Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center that is showing incredible results for patients while increasing comfort and decreasing downtime:  The Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, or LANAP.

FDA Approval and Minimally Invasive Nature

LANAP is a revolutionary procedure approved by the FDA for the treatment of gum disease. Unlike traditional methods, it is minimally invasive, which means it causes less trauma to the gums and promotes faster healing. LANAP utilizes the Millennium Dental Technologies MVP-7 laser, which selectively targets and eliminates bacteria and infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue.

No Incisions or Sutures

One of the key advantages of LANAP is that it does not involve incisions or sutures. Instead, the laser is used to remove bacteria and diseased tissue, promoting the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and supporting bone. This approach significantly reduces patient discomfort, post-operative pain, and the need for extensive recovery time.

Stimulates Tissue Regeneration

LANAP not only removes diseased tissue but also stimulates the regeneration of new tissue. The laser energy promotes the formation of blood clots, sealing the treated area and aiding in the regeneration of gum and bone tissue. This unique feature allows LANAP to achieve results that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally beneficial.

Precision and Effectiveness

The Millennium Dental Technologies MVP-7 laser used in LANAP provides exceptional precision and control during the procedure. It specifically targets and eliminates bacteria without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. This precision ensures effective treatment while minimizing the risk of complications.

While traditional gum recession and gum disease treatments have been effective, they often involve invasive procedures that can be uncomfortable and require lengthy recovery periods. The advent of LANAP, a minimally invasive alternative, has revolutionized the treatment of gum disease. With the FDA approval and utilization of the Millennium Dental Technologies MVP-7 laser, LANAP offers patients a more comfortable experience, faster healing, and predictable results.

To schedule your consultation or appointment with Dr. Janu to see what LANAP can do for you, call our office today at 219-864-1133