If you are dealing with periodontal disease and dreading the idea of traditional gum surgery, there is a modern, minimally invasive solution. ROC Perio & Implants proudly offers LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) in Rochester, NY, and throughout Monroe County.

Gum disease is a common dental issue that, if left untreated, can lead to significant discomfort, tooth loss, and serious systemic health problems. Our expert periodontists specialize in laser dentistry to safely and effectively treat gum disease without the pain and extended recovery of traditional methods.

What is the LANAP® Protocol?

The LANAP procedure is a breakthrough, FDA-approved laser treatment for gum disease. It is specifically designed to treat periodontitis by targeting and removing infected gum tissue without injuring healthy tissue.

Unlike traditional periodontal surgery, which requires a scalpel to cut away diseased tissue and sutures to close the gums, LANAP utilizes the highly advanced PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser. A tiny laser fiber, about the thickness of three human hairs, is gently inserted into the gum pockets around your teeth. The specialized laser vaporizes diseased tissue and bacteria while leaving the healthy gums entirely intact.

The Benefits of LANAP Laser Treatment

For the right dental patients, this advanced laser gum surgery offers incredible benefits over traditional gum disease treatments. Here are the primary reasons patients and periodontists prefer LANAP:

• Less Pain: Because LANAP does not involve cutting the gums or using stitches, it is significantly less invasive and painful during and after the procedure.
• Faster Healing: The minimally invasive nature of the treatment means healing time is much quicker. Most patients can return to their normal activities the same day or the day after their appointment.
• Preserves Healthy Tissue: The precision of the periodontal laser allows us to remove only the diseased tissue. This keeps your healthy tissue intact, minimizing gum recession and preserving your natural gum line.
• Reduced Infection Risk: The laser sterilizes the periodontal pocket, reducing the risk of post-operative infection.
• Promotes Bone Regeneration: LANAP is scientifically proven to stimulate the regeneration and attachment of new bone and ligament around the tooth roots. This can often save your teeth when they might otherwise need extraction.
• Less Bleeding and Swelling: The laser safely seals blood vessels and nerve endings as it works, resulting in less bleeding and inflammation compared to traditional surgery.

What Happens During LANAP Laser Gum Surgery?

During your consultation at ROC Perio & Implants, our periodontists will take a dental x-ray, measure your gum pockets, and determine if you are a good candidate for LANAP.

If LANAP is the right treatment plan for you, the procedure is typically completed in our office in two visits. First, we use a local anesthetic so you remain completely comfortable. Next, the specialized laser is used to remove diseased tissue and bacteria. We then use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth roots. Finally, the laser is passed over the area a second time to stimulate a natural blood clot (fibrin) that seals the pocket and promotes the reattachment of healthy gum tissue and cementum to the root.

Who is a Candidate for LANAP?

LANAP offers a fantastic treatment option for almost any patient suffering from moderate to severe gum disease. It is especially beneficial for:

• Patients who have not seen success with traditional treatments like scaling and root planing.
• Individuals looking to avoid the discomfort of traditional gum surgery.
• Patients with medical conditions or those taking medications that make traditional surgery risky (such as blood thinners, hemophilia, osteoporosis medications, or autoimmune treatments).

Why Choose ROC Perio & Implants for Laser Dentistry?

At ROC Perio & Implants, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of minimally invasive gum disease treatment. Our team of board-certified periodontists has undergone extensive, specialized training in the LANAP® protocol to ensure the highest standard of care.

As a prominent laser dentistry center in Rochester, NY, we are equipped with the latest technology, including the PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser, to restore your oral health. If you are also considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, establishing a healthy foundation with LANAP is the perfect first step.

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