What is LANAP Gum Disease Treatment?
LANAP® is a minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease that eliminates the need for scalpels or stitches. It’s the only FDA-approved laser procedure for treating periodontal disease.
Using a tiny fiber, about the width of three human hairs, the laser targets and removes infected tissue while leaving healthy gums intact. After cleaning the tooth roots and disinfecting the area, the laser forms a protective blood clot to seal the site and support healing. It’s a comfortable, effective alternative to traditional gum surgery.
Benefits of LANAP® Gum Disease Treatment
LANAP® offers a safer, gentler alternative to traditional gum surgery, with results that go beyond improved oral health. Key benefits include:
- Little to no discomfort during or after the procedure
- No cutting, stitches, or significant bleeding
- Faster recovery, often within 24 hours vs. weeks
- Minimal risk of tooth sensitivity or gum recession
- Better cosmetic outcomes with preserved gum line
- Reduced gum pockets and improved attachment levels
- Safe for patients with diabetes, bleeding disorders, or those on blood thinners
- Only local anesthesia is needed, you can drive yourself home
- Lower risk of infection and complications
- Encourages natural regrowth of healthy gum and bone tissue
LANAP® doesn’t just treat gum disease, it helps restore long-term health and comfort.
Why Treat Gum Disease?
Gum disease affects nearly 1 in 5 Americans and goes far beyond oral health. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Treating gum disease is essential not only for a healthy smile but also for protecting your overall well-being.
If gum disease has caused tooth discoloration or cosmetic concerns, options like dental veneers or professional teeth whitening can help restore a bright, even smile.
The 3 Stages of Gum Disease:
-
Gingivitis
This early stage begins with plaque buildup along the gumline, causing redness, swelling, bad breath, and bleeding gums. The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care. -
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. In this stage, inflammation causes pockets to form between the teeth and gums, trapping bacteria and leading to bone loss and gum recession. While not reversible, periodontitis can be managed with deep cleaning treatments like scaling and root planing. -
Advanced Periodontitis
In severe cases, the infection damages the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Teeth may become loose or shift, and tooth loss becomes a real risk.
Historically, this stage required traditional surgery, but now, LANAP® offers a modern, minimally invasive option to control the disease and help save your teeth.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
LANAP treatment is typically completed in two sessions, each lasting about two hours. The first visit treats one side of the mouth, while the second, usually scheduled a week later, focuses on the other. Most patients return to their normal routines shortly after each appointment.
Mild soreness is common for a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Treated gums may look slightly discolored, and you might receive a splint to help stabilize the teeth. Avoid brushing or flossing for 7–10 days, stick to a soft diet, and refrain from smoking to promote proper healing. Bite adjustments may be necessary during follow-up visits.
Yes, LANAP is safe for most patients, including those with diabetes, bleeding disorders, or who take blood thinners. Its minimally invasive nature makes it a preferred alternative to traditional gum surgery.
Regular teeth cleanings and comprehensive general dentistry exams remain key to preventing gum disease and maintaining results after LANAP.
With good oral hygiene and routine dental visits, LANAP results can last for many years. The treatment significantly improves gum health and helps reduce the risk of future gum disease.
No, LANAP is performed using local anesthesia. You’ll be awake during the procedure and can typically drive yourself home afterward.
Most patients return to work the same or next day. Recovery is quick and much more comfortable compared to traditional gum surgery.
What Our Patients Are Saying
For more than 15 years, we've earned our 5-star reputation as one of the most trusted dental care providers for residents of Midlothian, North Chesterfield, Bon Air & the Greater Richmond area. We love our patients, and it seems they love us too!
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New Patients Are Welcome
Hawkins Family Dentistry
- Monday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Thursday: 7:00am - 2:00pm
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Midlothian, VA, USA,
23113