By Tony Mandarich
Laser technology has revolutionized medical treatment. Lasers are now used routinely throughout healthcare. In the dental field, LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), has created an attractive option for patients suffering with gum disease (periodontal disease).
Developed by Dr. Robert H. Gregg II and Dr. Delwin McCarthy of Cerritos, California, LANAP has proven to be an attractive option for gum disease treatment. Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP is is completely non-invasive. Traditional gum surgery requires surgical cutting and scaling back of the gums for treatment. In addition traditional surgery surgical stitches are applied in the patient’s mouth. During LANAP, the dentist or periodontist utilizes a dental laser (The Periolase MVP-7, Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc) to gently “zap” gum disease with no cutting and no stitches.
According to Dr. Bruce Nelson, a dentist and LANAP practitioner, the difference between LANAP and traditional methods is remarkable. Dr. Nelson said, “With traditional gum surgery healing time was very slow, often taking weeks or months. With LANAP there is virtually no recovery time.” Dr. Nicholas Meyer, another LANAP practitioner concurs, “With LANAP, the patient experiences little or no bleeding. Any discomfort is minimal and very short term.”
The LANAP science is constantly evolving and improving based largely on the work of Raymond A. Yukio of the University of Colorado (formerly, Louisiana State University). Dr. Yukio has provided the statistical evidence proving the procedure’s validity. The LANAP protocol is FDA approved and the Periolase laser is FDA cleared. The procedure has been proven safe, effective, and predictable for thousands of patients throughout the United States.
As might be expected, LANAP is very popular with patients. “It was love at first sight.” Said a LANAP patient. “It (LANAP) didn’t hurt. It’s just great. My teeth came out nice.” She said flashing a smile. Another LANAP patient echoed her sentiment. “I’m really glad I had it done. It was virtually the best thing I’ve ever done for my mouth…because I don’t have any problems anymore.”
A big benefit of LANAP is it’s very short recovery time. Many patients report returning to their daily activities the same day they have the procedure. This is in marked contrast to traditional gum surgery which may require weeks or months to heal.
Since it is so patient friendly, the LANAP procedure also works to reduce patient anxiety about the treatment. “Many patients who are diagnosed with gum disease refuse to have it treated because of fear.” Said LANAP practitioner, Dr. Bruce LaChot. According to Dr. LaChot, this fear of perceived pain and discomfort, not to mention the inconvenience of time off work, has caused many to procrastinate on badly needed treatment. “Now with LANAP, they can relax it really reduces a patient’s anxiety.” He said.
Typically, LANAP is less expensive than traditional gum surgery. Costs, however, do vary depending on the extent of gum disease and the individual LANAP practitioner. LANAP is available throughout the United States, and, most large or medium cities have at least one or two [http://www.ameridontics.com/meet.htm]LANAP practitioners. [http://www.ameridontics.com]Laser Gum Surgery