Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common but serious condition that affects the health and stability of your teeth and gums. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth decay, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Laser therapy, particularly the LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) protocol, is a modern and minimally invasive treatment option that targets and eliminates harmful bacteria in the gums, promoting healing and reattachment of gum tissue to the teeth. At Nemeth & Katranji Periodontics, we specialize in providing this advanced laser therapy to help our patients effectively manage and treat gum disease with less pain, quicker recovery, and impressive results.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is primarily caused by bacteria that thrive in the spaces between the teeth and gums. These bacteria can infect and weaken the attachment between the tooth and gum, creating “pockets” around the teeth. These pockets become a breeding ground for more bacteria, leading to further decay, bone loss, and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Since gum disease often progresses without pain, many people are unaware of their condition. It is commonly referred to as a “silent killer” due to the way it gradually impacts oral and overall health. Regular check-ups and early intervention are essential to preventing and managing this disease effectively.

Benefits of LANAP for Gum Disease

While there are several treatments available for gum disease, LANAP® stands out for its unique benefits:

• Preserves Teeth: LANAP treats gum disease effectively while aiming to save natural teeth, even those with advanced disease.
• Quick Recovery: Unlike traditional surgery, LANAP offers same-day recovery, allowing patients to resume their routines immediately.
• Reduced Discomfort: LANAP is less invasive than conventional surgery, which often involves cutting and suturing the gums, making it a less painful option.
• Minimal Recession: Compared to traditional gum surgery, LANAP reduces the chance of gum recession, which helps maintain a natural smile line.
• Bone Regrowth: LANAP has been proven to encourage the regeneration of bone around the teeth, a crucial benefit for patients facing bone loss.
• Safe for All Patients: LANAP is a safe treatment choice even for patients with other medical conditions or those on medications, making it accessible to a broad range of individuals.

The LANAP Procedure: How It Works

LANAP is a minimally invasive approach that uses a specialized PerioLase® MVP-7TM laser to target and eliminate bacteria in gum pockets. Here’s how the procedure works:

1. Measurement of Pockets: We begin by measuring the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums to assess the extent of gum disease.
2. Laser Treatment: The PerioLase laser is used to remove disease-causing bacteria, which helps sterilize the pockets and reduce infection.
3. Scaling: An ultrasonic scaler is used to remove calculus (tartar) buildup, providing a clean environment for healing.
4. Clot Formation: The laser creates a protective clot that seals off the treated area, reducing the risk of infection during healing.
5. Tissue Reattachment: The gum tissue is gently pressed against the tooth root, allowing for natural reattachment without the need for sutures.
6. Bite Adjustment: Finally, we make a minor adjustment to your bite to ensure no trauma has occurred, supporting optimal healing.

This entire process is designed to promote the reattachment of the gum to the tooth, eliminate bacteria, and encourage natural tissue regrowth.

Gum Disease and Overall Health

Gum disease doesn’t just impact oral health; it has been linked to various systemic health issues. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can travel through the bloodstream and have been connected to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, and even certain cancers. By treating gum disease effectively with LANAP, you not only protect your teeth and gums but also reduce potential risks to your overall health. This connection highlights the importance of timely treatment and the role of LANAP in comprehensive health management.

Conclusion

Laser therapy through LANAP is a revolutionary approach for treating gum disease, offering patients a gentler, more effective, and less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. LANAP’s ability to remove harmful bacteria, promote reattachment, and encourage bone regrowth makes it a preferred option for those looking to treat gum disease with minimal discomfort and maximum results. At Nemeth & Katranji Periodontics, we are proud to offer this advanced treatment to help our patients regain a healthier mouth and improve their overall well-being. If you are experiencing signs of gum disease or would like to learn more about LANAP, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today. Let us help you protect your smile and health with cutting-edge laser therapy tailored to your needs.