Gum disease affects millions of Americans—often without noticeable symptoms until serious damage has already occurred. Traditional gum surgery can be painful, invasive, and comes with long recovery times. But now, there’s a gentler, more precise option: LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure).
LANAP uses a special FDA-cleared Nd: YAG laser that targets only infected gum tissue, leaving healthy gums untouched. This means a simpler, faster recovery and healthier gums—all without cutting, sutures, or scalpels.
In this blog, we’ll break down what LANAP is, how it works, and why it’s becoming the preferred choice for many patients seeking effective gum disease treatment.
What Is LANAP?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It’s a modern dental treatment that uses a special laser to treat gum disease without cutting or stitches. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves slicing the gums to remove infected tissue, LANAP targets only the diseased areas—preserving as much healthy gum as possible.
The procedure is FDA-cleared and backed by strong clinical research, making it one of the most trusted and advanced methods for treating periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
How Does LANAP Work?
Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you can expect during LANAP treatment:
Laser Removal of Bacteria
A special dental laser is used to remove harmful bacteria and infected tissue deep below the gum line.
Cleaning and Removal of Tartar
Once the infected tissue is removed, your dentist will clean out the area and use ultrasonic tools to remove hardened plaque (tartar).
Clot Formation
The laser stimulates the gum tissue and helps form a stable blood clot that seals the area, reducing the risk of infection and encouraging healing.
Reattachment of Gums
One of LANAP’s benefits is that it encourages the gum to reattach to the tooth naturally—helping restore gum health over time.
Benefits of LANAP Compared to Traditional Gum Surgery
Minimally Invasive – No cutting or sutures, which means less discomfort.
Faster Healing – Patients often return to normal activities within a day.
Preserves Healthy Tissue – Only the diseased areas are targeted.
Reduced Gum Recession – Since less tissue is removed, your gum line stays more intact.
Improved Long-Term Results – LANAP promotes true regeneration of bone and tissue.
Who Is a Candidate for LANAP?
LANAP is ideal for patients diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontitis, especially those who are looking for an alternative to traditional surgery. If you have bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or gum recession, you may benefit from LANAP.
It’s also a great option for patients who:
- Have medical conditions that make surgery risky
- Want to avoid stitches and lengthy recovery
- Are anxious about traditional dental surgery
What to Expect After LANAP Treatment
Recovery is usually quick and smooth. You might experience mild soreness or swelling for a day or two, but most patients return to work the next day. Your dentist will provide easy-to-follow aftercare instructions and monitor your healing during follow-up visits.
Canyon Crest Dental: Your Trusted LANAP Provider
If you’re struggling with gum disease and looking for a gentle, modern approach, Canyon Crest Dental in Riverside, CA, offers expert care with LANAP technology. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art tools and personalized treatment plans to ensure patient comfort and lasting results.
From routine cleanings to advanced periodontal care, Canyon Crest Dental is committed to improving your oral health using the latest science-backed treatments. Our LANAP service helps patients preserve their natural teeth, avoid painful surgery, and get back to smiling sooner.
