Gum health plays a vital role in overall oral health. When gum disease develops, it can quietly damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Left untreated, it may lead to tooth loss and broader health concerns. LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) offers a minimally invasive, advanced option for treating moderate to severe gum disease.
At Big Sky Smiles & Sedation, LANAP provides a modern alternative to traditional gum surgery. By using laser technology, this procedure focuses on removing diseased tissue while preserving healthy structures.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease begins with inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Early stages may involve redness, swelling, or bleeding when brushing. As it progresses, deeper infection can form pockets between the teeth and gums.
Advanced gum disease affects the bone supporting the teeth. Without treatment, teeth may loosen or fall out.
Traditional gum surgery often involves cutting and suturing the gums. LANAP offers a different approach.
What Is LANAP?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. This technique uses a specialized dental laser to target and remove infected tissue inside gum pockets. The laser helps eliminate harmful bacteria while encouraging healthy tissue regeneration.
Unlike traditional surgery, LANAP does not require scalpels or stitches in most cases. This often results in less discomfort and faster healing.
The laser energy selectively targets diseased tissue, leaving healthy tissue largely intact. It also promotes clot formation that seals the treated area.
The LANAP Procedure
The LANAP process begins with a thorough evaluation and measurement of gum pocket depth. During treatment, the laser is inserted gently between the tooth and gum to remove infected tissue.
After cleaning the root surfaces, the laser is used again to encourage tissue attachment. The procedure is designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
Most patients experience minimal swelling or discomfort compared to traditional surgery.
Benefits of LANAP
LANAP offers several important advantages:
- Minimally invasive treatment
- Reduced bleeding
- Faster healing times
- Preservation of healthy gum tissue
- Encouragement of bone regeneration
- Lower risk of gum recession compared to traditional surgery
For patients concerned about surgical discomfort, LANAP provides a more comfortable alternative.
Who Can Benefit from LANAP?
LANAP is typically recommended for patients with moderate to advanced gum disease. It may be especially helpful for those who want to avoid traditional surgical methods.
Early intervention remains important. Addressing gum disease promptly can help protect teeth and preserve long-term oral health.
Protecting Your Smile for the Future
Healthy gums provide the foundation for a healthy smile. LANAP offers a modern solution for treating gum disease while supporting natural healing. By targeting infection and encouraging regeneration, this approach helps stabilize oral health in a less invasive way.
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums or persistent inflammation, contact Big Sky Smiles & Sedation at (406) 549-6222 to schedule your consultation at 1001 SW Higgins Ave #103, Missoula, MT 59803 and learn whether LANAP can help restore your gum health.
