LANAP in Raleigh, NC

Are you struggling with gum disease but worried about painful, invasive treatment options? LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) at Brier Creek Implants and Periodontics offers a revolutionary alternative to traditional gum surgery. Dr. Alice Wu provides this advanced laser treatment that promotes healing while eliminating the discomfort and extensive recovery time associated with conventional periodontal surgery.

What is LANAP (Laser Periodontal Surgery)?

LANAP is an FDA-cleared laser treatment that precisely targets periodontal disease while preserving healthy gum tissue. Unlike traditional surgery that requires cutting and suturing, LANAP uses the PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser to selectively remove diseased tissue and bacteria without harming surrounding healthy tissue.

A tiny laser fiber that’s about the size of three human hairs is inserted between the tooth and gum. The laser clears the infection away without any need to cut into the gums. Dr. Wu doctor will thoroughly clean the tooth roots to ensure all plaque and tartar are removed. Finally, a different setting on the laser is used to create a blood clot that seals off the pocket, stimulating periodontal regeneration rather than just disease management.

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Who Needs LANAP

LANAP is an excellent option for patients experiencing moderate to severe periodontal disease symptoms.

  • Bleeding gums: If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, this early sign of gum disease might indicate you're a candidate for LANAP treatment.
  • Swollen Gums: A symptom of irritation or inflammation in the gum tissue. Gums may appear red, puffy, or tender and could bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
  • Receding gumline: Gum recession exposes tooth roots and creates sensitivity, making LANAP a suitable intervention before further damage occurs.
  • Persistent bad breath: Chronic halitosis often signals bacterial infection beneath the gumline that LANAP can effectively target and eliminate.
  • Loose teeth: When periodontal disease progresses to affect tooth stability, LANAP offers a chance to save teeth that might otherwise require extraction.
  • Deep Periodontal pocket: When gum disease destructs the supporting tissue and bone causing a space between the tooth and the gum.
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What to Expect

Initial consultation: During your first visit, Dr. Wu will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health, review your medical history, and use advanced imaging to assess the extent of periodontal disease before creating your personalized treatment plan.

LANAP procedure:

  1. First laser application: The treatment begins with local anesthesia for your comfort, followed by the insertion of a thin laser fiber between the tooth and gum to target infected tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact.
  2. Ultrasonic cleaning: During laser treatment, specialized instruments remove tartar deposits from root surfaces, creating a clean environment for healing and reattachment.
  3. Second laser application: A final pass with the laser at a different setting forms a stable blood clot to seal the treated area, eliminating the need for sutures and protecting the site during healing.

Follow-up care: Post-treatment visits allow Dr. Wu to monitor your healing progress and ensure optimal results, with most patients requiring only minimal adjustments to their normal oral hygiene routine during recovery.

FAQs

Is LANAP painful? 

Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia ensures comfort during treatment, and recovery is typically much less painful than traditional gum surgery, with many patients returning to normal activities within 24 hours.

How long does LANAP treatment take?

The procedure is generally completed in two visits of about 1.5-2 hours each, focusing on one half of the mouth per session. This efficient approach minimizes chair time while allowing thorough treatment of the entire mouth within a relatively short timeframe.

Will my insurance cover LANAP? 

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for LANAP similar to traditional periodontal surgery coverage. Our office team will work with you to verify your benefits and explore financing options to make treatment as affordable as possible.

How effective is LANAP compared to traditional surgery?

Clinical studies show LANAP delivers comparable or superior results to traditional surgery with significantly reduced recovery time and discomfort. The laser technology promotes natural regeneration that often surpasses results from conventional methods.

How soon can I resume normal activities?

Unlike traditional gum surgery, which may require several days of recovery, many LANAP patients return to their regular activities within 24 hours. There is a brief dietary adjustment period after the procedure, lasting about three weeks. Feel free to reach out to learn more and determine if LANAP surgery is right for you.

Schedule Your LANAP Consultation Today

Take the first step toward healthier gums and a more comfortable smile with LANAP at Brier Creek Implants and Periodontics. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you discover if this revolutionary treatment is right for you. Contact our Raleigh office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Alice Wu.

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