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Laser Gum Surgery

Today, there is a laser alternative to traditional gum surgery! Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, or LANAP, is an amazing breakthrough in periodontal treatment. We offer it right here in Bangor at Broadway Dental.

More than 80% of U.S. adults suffer from some degree of gum disease. It is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Gum or Periodontal disease starts as plaque that hardens, eventually turning into tartar or calculus.

These calculus deposits harbor bacteria, causing the gums to become infected. In the early stages, this is called Gingivitis. Most people have varying degrees of Gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. In the later stages, Gingivitis progresses to Periodontal Disease.

When Periodontal Disease is present, periodontal pockets have formed, separating teeth from the gums and supporting bone structure. If left untreated, the infection becomes severe. The pockets deepen, resulting in tooth loss.

The way to repair the damage is to get rid of the infection and close up the pockets. In the past, this meant invasive periodontal surgery. Not today, thanks to LANAP!

HOW DOES LANAP WORK?

The LANAP procedure’s objective is not to shrink the gums, as is done in classic surgery. Rather, the goal is to get the gums to seal back to the tooth to repair lost tissue. This is done using a laser.

First, the laser removes the surface lining (epithelium) of the tissue facing the tooth. This leaves fresh connective tissue against the tooth to facilitate healing. Second, the laser kills many types of bacteria, which causes gum disease. Third, the laser also stimulates the growth of new tissue.

However, this is only part of the process. There is also tooth cleaning and bone stimulation done with other instruments. The bite is adjusted. Then, there is a detailed post-operative management plan.

The LANAP procedure is the first and only to receive FDA clearance for True Regeneration, which is re-growing new cementum, new periodontal ligament, and new alveolar bone. These three components are needed for full oral function. The LANAP protocol has been in widespread use by the dental community for many years now.

DO ALL DENTISTS OFFER LANAP?

Not all dentists are trained in the LANAP procedure. Dr. Tozer received comprehensive, hands-on, clinical training over the course of a year at the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry. He is a certified LANAP Regenerative Specialist for the treatment of periodontitis.

HOW LONG DOES LANAP TREATMENT TAKE?

The dentist will treat half of your mouth in a session under local anesthesia. You should be able to drive yourself home or back to work following the procedure. There is minimal downtime with LANAP.

Individuals who have had LANAP continue to get their cleanings in our office. The hygiene staff uses the laser occasionally at a reduced, nonsurgical setting. This is part of the post-operative management plan.

IS LANAP COVERED BY INSURANCE?

Coverage of periodontal disease treatment varies by carrier. We can usually do a predetermination of benefits. Please contact us for more information.

BENEFITS OF LANAP VS. TRADITIONAL SURGERY

  • Less pain.
  • Less bleeding.
  • Less sensitivity.
  • Less gum loss.
  • Less swelling.
  • Little downtime after treatment.
  • Fewer post-op infections.
  • Promotes regeneration of supporting gum tissues.
  • Healing is faster and more comfortable than conventional surgery.

If you’re experiencing any of the gum disease symptoms, don’t wait! Contact Broadway Dental today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tozer to see if laser gum surgery is the best choice for you. Early treatment is critical and will ensure that you can keep your natural teeth for a lifetime!