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Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Traditionally, methods like scaling and root planing and surgical procedures have been used to eliminate the disease. However, the treatment of gum disease has finally stepped into the 21st century with advanced laser technology!
Continue reading to learn why LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is becoming a preferred option for treating gum disease and how it offers a modern approach to oral health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
To understand how LANAP is a superior treatment method, you must first know a little bit about periodontal disease. It’s a bacterial infection that affects the supporting structures of the teeth. It usually begins with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can progress to more severe forms like periodontitis left unchecked. This leads to inflamed or bleeding gums, bad breath, and even damage to the jawbone which can cause loose teeth.
How Does LANAP Treat Gum Disease?
LANAP treatment involves using specific wavelengths of light to target and remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums. Here are some of the fantastic benefits of this advanced technology:
- Precision: Lasers have pinpoint accuracy to attack the affected areas of the gums, leaving healthy tissue unharmed. This precision promotes faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
- Reduced Bleeding and Swelling: The energy from the laser seals blood vessels and nerve endings as it works, leading to less bleeding and swelling during and after the procedure.
- Minimal Discomfort: Laser treatment is typically less invasive than traditional surgery that involves cutting gum tissue and suturing it back together. This minimizes discomfort both during and after the procedure!
- Better Aesthetics: Traditional gum disease surgery can alter the gumline, sometimes creating uneven or less aesthetically pleasing results. With LANAP, you’ll barely notice a change.
- Effective Bacterial Reduction: Periodontal lasers effectively kill bacteria on contact and remove infected tissue. This eliminates the source of the infection and reduce the risk of recurrence.
LANAP is a modern and effective approach to treating gum disease. By harnessing the power of light, lasers offer many benefits compared to traditional methods. If you’re struggling with periodontal disease and want a minimally invasive treatment option, reach out to your periodontist. They’ll evaluate your mouth and work with you to see if laser treatment is the right choice for you.
About the Author
Dr. Bita Amanda Farhoumand is a board-certified periodontist and implantologist who loves to help her patients find their best smiles. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry and continues to build her skills through multiple professional organizations. Call (760) 470-4664 to schedule a LANAP consultation at Bita Farhoumand, DDS, or visit the website to explore other services.
