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Everything you need to know about laser treatment for gum disease
In your search for “gum disease treatment near me in Monrovia, California,” know that Pasadena Periodontics is uniquely qualified as a specialty center to provide advanced, precision techniques. Our periodontists’ expertise and skill are complemented by our use of sophisticated technologies. These tools allow us to perform treatments faster, with greater precision, and more comfortably than those treatments that use traditional techniques and dental instruments. The Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure® (LANAP) embodies this state-of-the-art approach to effectively healing damaged gums without compromising comfort.
What is LANAP®?
True to its name, LANAP® uses a fine, soft tissue laser instead of a scalpel to precisely target and treat diseased gums. It is FDA-cleared for the treatment of moderate to severe gum/periodontal disease.
How do you treat gum disease with LANAP®?
The energy from the laser triggers a process that results in the removal of the damaged tissue. Only the tissue that needs to be removed is, as LANAP® does not target or treat the surrounding, healthy tissue. LANAP® also works by destroying the harmful bacteria responsible for gum disease, effectively treating this condition at its source. Lastly, the LANAP® process encourages healing and the re-attachment of the gums to the surfaces of the tooth roots. While the effects of advanced gum disease cannot be reversed, we can regenerate new tissues to rebuild the structure, function, and appearance of your smile.
What can I expect during treatment?
The process starts by using a special dental instrument or probe to gently measure the spaces between the teeth and gums. The depth and damage to these pockets tell us what your needs are and help to guide treatment. We then insert the laser in these spaces. The laser is activated to eradicate disease-causing bacteria and to remove damaged gums. Next, we remove hardened plaque or tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth with an ultrasonic scaler and other instruments. Then, the laser is reintroduced to connect the tissue back to the root and seal the pocket. This step prevents new germs from entering. Lastly, we adjust and balance your bite to ensure excessive force is not placed on loose teeth.
What happens after treatment?
Since there is no cutting or suturing, LANAP® is a minimally invasive treatment option. When treatments are not invasive, they are largely associated with little to no downtime, recovery, and risks of severe side effects and complications. Pain is also minimized at every step in the process. Usually, any discomfort following treatment goes away within 24 hours. To complete treatment, you only return to our office one more time. After that, we’ll see you two more times for follow-up visits to assess how you are healing. These characteristics compare favorably to conventional periodontal surgery, which typically takes at least four hour-long treatment sessions and requires a recovery period of 2 – 4 weeks. There are also additional visits required for things like removing sutures. We have eliminated much of the time, hassle, and pain associated with traditional gum disease treatment.
Why should I choose Pasadena Periodontics?
We have been using LANAP® for longer than most offices in Southern California; more than 15 years! We also use other advanced technologies to support successful and safe treatment. These technologies include digital X-rays, a 3-D cone beam scanner, and advanced software to understand your needs and plan treatment that will effectively target and heal your gums. We welcome your specific questions about LANAP® and gum disease treatment. Call (626) 796-5386 our Monrovia, CA area office today.
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The skilled team at Pasadena Periodontics, led by Dr. Joel Henriod, Dr. Tyler Hendry,, and Dr. Jane Law, is dedicated to providing quality dental care to ensure that patients in Pasadena and nearby communities in California enjoy optimal oral health and beautiful smiles.
Dr. Joel Henriod
Dr. Henriod is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, certified in LANAP (laser periodontal surgery), the Pinhole Surgical Technique for receding gums, and both oral and IV sedation.
Dr. Tyler Hendry
Dr. Hendry is certified in LANAP® (Laser Periodontal Surgery), the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST), and both oral and IV sedation.
Dr. Jane Law
Dr. Law is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a board-certified specialist in Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery.
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