LANAP Laser therapy for gum disease

Laser Gum Treatment

What is LANAP?

Another recent development in periodontal treatment is the use of a laser to regenerate soft and hard tissue in a minimally invasive manner with minimal discomfort. The therapy does not involve scalpels or sutures, though they are still very much a part of the office armamentarium.

This technology is available on both teeth and dental implants.

This technology is changing the treatment of periodontal disease in a similar manner to LASIK changing ophthalmology.

A Regenerating and Healing Technique 

Utilizing the body’s own natural ability to “heal itself”, Dr. Barabas and Dr. Barabas utilize the PerioLase™ for the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP™). Performed without a scalpel and sutures, LANAP™ creates an environment for regeneration of the tissues around your teeth (gum, bone, cementum, ligament) that are lost due to periodontal disease.

The laser therapy works by targeting only diseased epithelium, which is discerned by the inflammation in the tissues as well as the presence of black-pigmented bacteria. Diseased gums are darker than healthy gums. The laser is then used to agitate the healthy tissue, encouraging it to reattach to the bone. Because of the regrowth of this connective tissue, there is also a much lower chance of gum disease returning than with traditional surgery.

Minimally-Invasive Laser Gum Treatment in Midland Park, NJ.
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A Therapy Without Fear

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Additionally, there are virtually no contraindications to treatment with LANAP and LAPIP. Traditional surgery often had concerns with patients on blood thinners or other medications. Due to the minimal invasiveness and minimal bleeding involved, virtually anyone with periodontal disease or peri-implantitis can be treated with this therapy without fear.

Due to the ability of the laser to target and remove only diseased tissue, Drs. Barabas and Barabas are able to help restore you to health with no post-operative pain and fewer side effects and risks than traditional surgery. This is in conjunction with a detailed homecare program that is described below.

LANAP™ Post-Operative Instructions

  • Anti-microbial rinses and antibiotic medications may be prescribed for you. Take any prescribed medications according to directions and continue taking them until all meds are gone.
  • Reduce physical activity for several hours following surgery.
  • Periodontal laser procedures usually result in little or no discomfort following surgery.
  • For the first 24 hour period immediately following surgery, take two (2) Advil or Motrin (Ibuprofen) every 4-6 hours even if you do not have any pain.
  • For the first 24 hour period immediately following surgery, stay on a liquid diet only. For the following 3-7 days after surgery, a soft diet is recommended. Try to eat soft but nutritious foods such as eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, malts, ice cream, etc. Stay away from spicy and “chippy” foods. It is also important to maintain good fluid intake during this period.
  • Carefully avoid chewing food in the areas of the mouth where the laser has been used for at least one week following surgery. One of the most important results of laser surgery is the blood clots that form following surgery. It is extremely important not to dislodge the tiny clots that form in and around the gums.
  • Do not be alarmed with any color changes or appearance of tissues following laser therapy.  Tissues can be gray, yellow, red, blue, purple, “stringy” and reflect normal response to laser treatments.
  • It is OK to spit, rinse, and wash your mouth today.  Rinse as directed with Peridex or Periogard morning and night.  In between, it is OK to rinse gently every three (3) hours with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8oz. glass of warm water).  Do not brush or floss your teeth until instructed to do so (see Treatment and Home Care sequence sheet).
  • Try to keep your mouth as clean as possible in order to help the healing process.  Brush, floss, and follow other home care measures in all the areas of your mouth except for the surgery area.
  • Do not apply excessive tongue or cheek pressure to the surgery area.

Do not be alarmed if one of the following occurs:

  • Light bleeding
  • Slight swelling
  • Some soreness, tenderness, or tooth sensitivity
  • Medicinal taste, from Peridex or Periogard

Please call the office at Ridgewood Periodontal & Implant Associates Office Phone Number 201-447-0855 if you are experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • Prolonged or severe pain
  • Prolonged or excessive bleeding
  • Considerably elevated or persistent temperature

Do not be alarmed that beginning within two weeks after therapy and extending as long as one year or more, the teeth may become sore, tender, or sensitive as the bone and ligaments around the teeth regenerate and become more firm.  This is a sign of healing, but may also indicate the presence of a bite imbalance that may need to be adjusted.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us! Ridgewood Periodontal & Implant Associates Office Phone Number 201-447-0855

Restoring Smiles and Changing Lives in Bergen County, NJ!
Request an Appointment Online or call Ridgewood Periodontal & Implant Associates Office Phone Number 201-447-0855 to schedule your consult today!

Ridgewood Periodontal & Implant Associates

5 out of 5 stars based on 1 LANAP Laser reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Barabas saved my teeth- I cannot believe everyone with gum problems doesn't come for LANAP.

- T S

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