Dr. Fine's friend from dental school is the inventor of the gold standard for curing periodontal disease, the laser-assisted new attachment procedure or LANAP. Because of this connection, Dr. Fine was one of the first to know about and offer this procedure. He has been helping cure gum disease for decades!
Laser Periodontal Surgery, also known as LANAP, is a cutting-edge procedure designed to address gum disease in a minimally invasive manner. By utilizing specialized lasers and advanced techniques, this treatment aims to effectively remove bacteria from periodontal pockets within the gum tissue, without the need for traditional surgery and sutures.
During the LANAP procedure, the laser is skillfully employed to meticulously clean out the infection and seal the pockets, preventing the entry of new germs. This innovative approach not only eliminates the harmful bacteria but also encourages the gum tissue to heal naturally. Patients who undergo this procedure can benefit from significantly reduced healing time and experience a more comfortable and pleasant recovery process compared to traditional methods.
LANAP offers a range of advantages for individuals with gum disease. The utilization of lasers allows for precise and targeted treatment, ensuring the removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy gum tissue. Moreover, this technique promotes the regeneration of gum attachment, enabling the gums to reattach to a normal or near-normal depth. This contributes to the overall improvement of periodontal health and function.
By opting for LANAP, patients can benefit from the conservative nature of this treatment. It provides a viable alternative to more invasive surgical procedures, particularly for individuals in the moderate to severe stages of gum disease.
In summary, LANAP, or Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an advanced and minimally invasive procedure that utilizes specialized lasers and techniques to remove bacteria from periodontal pockets. This innovative approach helps avoid traditional surgery and sutures, resulting in reduced healing time and a more comfortable experience for patients. By preserving healthy tissue and promoting gum regeneration, LANAP offers a conservative yet effective option for individuals with early to moderate gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition that occurs when bacteria penetrate beneath the gum line, leading to the loss of attachment between the gums and teeth. The progression of gum disease can be explained in several stages.
Initially, bacterial plaque forms on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky substance comprised of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If plaque is not adequately removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and become tartar or calculus. Tartar creates a rough surface that allows bacteria to accumulate more easily.
As the bacteria continue to multiply, they produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gums, causing gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Fortunately, at this stage, gum disease can be reversed if proper oral hygiene practices are adopted.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. During periodontitis, the bacterial infection spreads below the gum line, leading to the destruction of the tissues that support the teeth, including the gum tissue, ligaments, and bone.
As the infection progresses, deep pockets form between the gum and the tooth, providing a conducive environment for further bacterial growth. At this stage, gum disease becomes chronic and often goes unnoticed due to its typically painless nature. The chronic infection can cause the gum and bone destruction to worsen over time.
If gum disease continues to advance without proper treatment, it can lead to tooth loss. Teeth may become loose or shift in position due to weakened support from the surrounding tissues. Traditional treatment for advanced gum disease, such as surgical intervention, can be uncomfortable or painful. While scaling and root planing or the more advanced LANAP technique can create better results and are much more comfortable.
Ultimately, understanding the progression of gum disease emphasizes the importance of early detection and prevention. Regular dental check-ups and conscientious oral hygiene practices can help prevent the development and advancement of gum disease, protecting both the oral health and overall well-being of individuals.