What Is LANAP?
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a modern alternative to osseous surgery for treating gum disease. It uses laser technology to eliminate harmful bacteria while preserving healthy tissue.Periodontal disease causes gums to pull away from teeth, forming pockets that can lead to tooth loss and bone damage. LANAP targets infection, promotes gum regeneration, and helps close these pockets immediately. Unlike traditional methods, its laser precisely removes bad bacteria while leaving beneficial bacteria untouched.
A minimally Invasive Treatment vs. Surgical Osseous Procedures
A treatment’s invasiveness refers to whether it breaks the skin. Surgeries like osseous surgery are invasive, while LANAP is non-invasive.Non-invasive procedures offer several benefits—no need for anesthesia, shorter recovery, and fewer side effects. Many patients prefer them to avoid pain, as surgery can be much more uncomfortable during recovery. LANAP, in contrast, is gentle and safe. No scalpel, no incisions, no stitches, why wait?
Speed of Treatment
For moderate gum disease or localized periodontal disease, osseous surgery and LANAP take similar time.However, severe cases often require multiple osseous surgery sessions—sometimes up to 10—since dentists can treat only one area at a time. In contrast, LANAP is much faster, typically requiring just one or two two-hour sessions with minimal recovery.
Post-Treatment Recovery Time
Faster recovery is a key reason patients choose LANAP over osseous surgery. While LANAP has mild side effects like slight bleeding or sensitivity, recovery takes just a day.Osseous surgery, on the other hand, requires at least a week, with common issues like bleeding, swelling, bruising, and infection risk.
Laser LANAP and how it works for gum pain and disease, view printable information sheet here