How LANAP Laser Gum Therapy Can Fight Periodontitis

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 47 percent of adults over age 30 have some form of periodontal disease. Left untreated, periodontitis can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

At ConfiDENT Dental, with offices in Alpharetta and Cumming, we offer advanced LANAP laser gum therapy to help patients fight periodontal disease with greater comfort and less downtime compared to traditional surgery.

What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If not treated, bacteria spread below the gumline, forming pockets between the teeth and gums.

Over time, these pockets deepen, destroying the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Common symptoms include:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Loose teeth
• Changes in bite alignment

Traditional Gum Surgery vs. LANAP

Conventional periodontal surgery typically involves cutting the gums with a scalpel to access infected areas. Diseased tissue and bone are removed, and in some cases, bone grafting materials are placed. Sutures are required to reposition the gums around the teeth.

While effective, traditional surgery can involve:

• Postoperative discomfort
• Swelling and bleeding
• Longer recovery time
• Risk of gum recession
• Need for additional procedures

LANAP, which stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, takes a different approach.

How LANAP Works

LANAP uses advanced laser technology to target and eliminate harmful bacteria within periodontal pockets. The laser selectively removes infected tissue while preserving healthy gum tissue.

The procedure involves:

• Using a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria
• Cleaning and scaling the root surfaces to eliminate plaque and tartar
• Using the laser again to promote clot formation and support healing

Because LANAP does not require scalpels or sutures, the procedure is typically less invasive.

Benefits of LANAP Laser Gum Therapy

Patients often choose LANAP for its comfort and efficiency. Benefits may include:

• Reduced bleeding and swelling
• Minimal discomfort during and after treatment
• Faster recovery time
• Preservation of healthy tissue
• Lower risk of gum recession

Clinical studies have shown that laser periodontal therapy can reduce pocket depth and improve attachment levels, helping stabilize the teeth and prevent further bone loss.

Many patients return to normal activities within a day or two, compared to longer recovery periods associated with traditional gum surgery.

A Modern Solution for Advanced Gum Disease

Periodontal disease does not resolve on its own. Early treatment is essential to prevent progression and tooth loss. LANAP offers an effective alternative for patients with moderate to advanced gum disease who want a less invasive solution.

At ConfiDENT Dental, our experienced team in Alpharetta and Cumming is committed to providing state-of-the-art periodontal care. If you are experiencing signs of gum disease, schedule a consultation to learn whether LANAP laser gum therapy may be right for you.

Taking action now can protect your smile, your oral health, and your overall well-being for years to come.