The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that close to one in every two American adults, aged 30 and older, have some form of gum disease (periodontal disease). Fortunately, Beata A. Carlson, DDS, and Associates at Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry have a precision, safe, and well-tolerated way to promote healthy healing and reattachment of the gums in Clearwater, Florida.
We use the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) to resolve moderate to severe gum disease non-invasively. LANAP was first introduced in the 1990s as an alternative to invasive surgeries for periodontal therapy. Generally, the more invasive the process, the greater the risks of complications and undesirable side effects such as bleeding and pain.
As the first and only laser treatment of its kind to be cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, LANAP is a time-tested, clinically proven, and safe way to restore gum health while avoiding the risks associated with “conventional” incisional treatment. Much of the magic of LANAP resides with what patients will not expect from treatment.
Just a few of the benefits of laser-assisted periodontal therapy include:
- No cutting
- No stitches (sutures)
- Sensitivity and bleeding is slight or minimized
- Appropriate for many different types of patients (no contraindications)
- Regenerative; promotes bony tissue and the reattachment of the gums and teeth
- Encourages prompt recovery that unlocks the body’s natural healing capacity
LANAP presents a predictable way for our dentists to remove harmful bacteria and seal the gummy tissue to the roots of the teeth. Notably, we can preserve teeth, which would otherwise be so loose or structurally deficient that they would have to be extracted. Similarly, the process of LANAP starts by “splinting” the loose teeth. In this manner, vulnerable teeth are stabilized during the process. One of our skilled dentists then directs powerful energy generated by the laser beam toward the affected gum tissues. Measurements to determine the depth of the periodontal pocket or space between the teeth and gums help inform treatment planning and the effectiveness of our therapy.
The laser is passed over the treatment areas to kill disease-causing bacteria and unlock the healing process. Generally, we recommend that patients undergo two treatment sessions: the first treats one side of the mouth, and the second treats the other side. LANAP helps reduce the size of the pockets that harbor bacteria and other harmful substances. It also aids in the regeneration of bone and in resolving periodontal infections.
Gum disease does not go away on its own. It requires treatment to prevent the disease from progressing and causing severe systemic infection or tooth loss. Please call Beata A. Carlson DDS and Associates, Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry, at 727-888-6523. Do not delay Book an Appointment at our office in Clearwater.
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