Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common chronic infections in adults and a leading cause of tooth loss. Beyond the mouth, active periodontal inflammation is associated with systemic concerns—another reason timely, evidence‑based treatment matters. At Littleton Implant & Periodontics, we offer LANAP laser therapy, a modern approach designed to control infection, preserve healthy tissue, and support your long‑term oral health with less discomfort and downtime than traditional surgery.
What is LANAP?
LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a protocol that uses a specialized dental laser to target and remove bacteria and diseased gum tissue inside periodontal pockets while leaving healthy tissue largely intact. The laser energy is selective: it helps disrupt the biofilm and coagulate the area, creating conditions favorable for the body to stabilize the gum‑to‑tooth connection. After the laser pass, we clean root surfaces thoroughly and encourage the gums to re‑seal around the teeth.
Benefits of LANAP vs. Conventional Gum Surgery
While both LANAP and traditional periodontal flap surgery aim to control infection and reduce pocket depth, LANAP offers several clinical advantages that many patients appreciate:
- Minimally invasive: No scalpel incisions or sutures are typically required.
- Tissue preservation: Diseased tissue is removed while healthy tissue is spared as much as possible.
- Reduced bleeding and swelling: Laser energy helps with hemostasis.
- Comfortable recovery: Patients commonly report less post‑operative soreness and quicker return to normal activities.
- Fewer gum recessions: Because we avoid extensive cutting, there is often less risk of increased root exposure.
- Efficient appointments: Many cases can be treated in one or two visits, depending on severity.
Who Is a Candidate?
LANAP may be appropriate if you have:
- Persistent gum bleeding, tenderness, or swelling
- Periodontal pockets (spaces) noted on exam or charting
- Bone loss visible on dental radiographs
- Mobility or drifting teeth related to periodontal disease
Patients with diabetes or other systemic conditions can often be treated effectively with LANAP, provided their overall health is well managed. If you have dental implants with inflamed tissues, we’ll evaluate for peri‑implant disease and discuss whether a laser‑assisted approach or another protocol is indicated. A comprehensive periodontal evaluation in our Littleton office will determine the best plan for your specific needs.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Diagnosis & Planning: We begin with a detailed periodontal exam, pocket measurements, and digital imaging. Your periodontist reviews findings and explains recommended therapy.
- Comfort & Anesthesia: Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Laser Pass: A thin laser fiber is placed around each affected tooth to selectively remove diseased lining and disrupt bacteria.
- Root Surface Debridement: Ultrasonic and hand instruments thoroughly clean the root surfaces for optimal healing.
- Second Laser Pass: The laser helps create a stable blood clot at the gum margin to protect the area as healing begins.
- Occlusal Adjustment (as needed): We may fine‑tune the bite to reduce excessive forces on teeth affected by bone loss.
- Post‑Operative Instructions: You’ll receive specific guidance on diet, hygiene, and follow‑up.
Most patients return to routine activities within 24–48 hours, though you should follow the dietary and hygiene instructions closely to protect the healing tissue.
Recovery, Home Care, and Maintenance
The first week focuses on stability and inflammation control:
- Diet: Soft foods for several days; avoid crunchy, spicy, or very hot items initially.
- Hygiene: Do not brush or floss the treated sites until instructed; use prescribed rinses exactly as directed.
- Medications: Take any recommended anti‑inflammatories or antibiotics as prescribed.
- Follow‑Ups: You’ll return for evaluations to monitor pocket reduction and tissue response.
Long‑term success depends on meticulous home care and professional maintenance:
- Brush twice daily with a soft or electric brush; clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes once approved.
- Consider a water flosser to aid plaque control in deeper areas.
- Commit to periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months. These specialized cleanings help control bacteria that repopulate pockets and allow us to track healing over time.
- Address contributing factors such as smoking and blood sugar control with your medical providers.
Expected Results
Clinical goals include reduced pocket depths, decreased bleeding on probing, improved tissue tone, and greater comfort chewing and cleaning. Many patients notice fresher breath and easier hygiene within weeks. Because periodontal disease is chronic, we emphasize a proactive maintenance schedule to help you keep your results stable for the long term.
Why Choose a Periodontist in Littleton?
As periodontal specialists focused on implants, gum health, and regenerative therapies, we provide precise diagnosis and a comprehensive range of treatments—non‑surgical therapy, LANAP, soft‑tissue grafting, bone regeneration, and dental implants—so you receive the right care at the right time. Our practice is conveniently located for patients in Littleton and the greater Denver metro area, including Highlands Ranch, Ken Caryl, Columbine, Lakewood, and Englewood.
FAQs
Is LANAP painful?
Most patients are comfortable with local anesthesia during treatment and report milder post‑operative soreness than with conventional surgery. Over‑the‑counter pain relievers are often sufficient.
How many visits will I need?
This depends on disease severity. Many full‑mouth cases are completed in one or two treatment visits plus follow‑ups for monitoring and maintenance.
Will insurance cover LANAP?
Dental plans vary. Many policies provide benefits for periodontal therapy; coverage depends on your specific plan and diagnosis. We can submit a pre‑treatment estimate on request.
How long do results last?
With excellent home care and regular periodontal maintenance, improvements can be long‑standing. Because gum disease is chronic, ongoing professional care is essential to keep bacteria controlled.
For a thorough periodontal evaluation and to learn whether LANAP is right for you, contact Littleton Implant & Periodontics. Our team is committed to providing precise, patient‑centered care to help you keep your smile healthy and strong.