If you’ve been told you have gum disease, you might be picturing scalpels, stitches, and a long, uncomfortable recovery. That was the old way. Today, there’s a gentler option. It’s called LANAP, and it’s changing how periodontists treat gum disease. At North Shore Perio & Implantology, we’re proud to offer this advanced treatment.
What Does LANAP Stand For?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. “Laser-assisted” means we use a dental laser instead of a scalpel. “New attachment” refers to the procedure’s goal: helping your gums reattach to your teeth in a healthier way.
In simple terms, LANAP is a laser treatment for gum disease. It removes infected tissue, kills bacteria, and encourages your body to heal, all without cutting or stitching.
How Does LANAP Work?
The procedure happens in a few steps and is usually done right here in our office.
- Measuring. We start by measuring the pocket depth around your teeth. These are the spaces between your gums and teeth where bacteria collect. Healthy pockets are shallow. Deep pockets signal gum disease.
- Laser treatment. We use a tiny laser fiber to gently remove infected tissue inside the pockets. The laser targets only the diseased tissue. Healthy tissue stays untouched. This means less bleeding, less swelling, and less discomfort.
- Cleaning. After the laser removes the infection, we clean the tooth roots to remove plaque and tartar. This gives your gums a clean surface to heal against.
- Clotting. We use the laser again to help form a stable blood clot. This clot acts like a bandage, protecting the area and helping your gums reattach to your teeth.
- Bite adjustment. Finally, we check your bite and make small adjustments if needed. This helps your teeth meet properly and reduces stress on your gums.
The whole procedure usually takes about two hours per side. Most patients need two visits to treat both sides.
Why Choose LANAP?
Patients and periodontists love LANAP for several reasons.
- It’s less invasive: No scalpel. No stitches. And no cutting away gum tissue. That means less pain and faster healing.
- It preserves healthy tissue: Traditional gum surgery removes both diseased and healthy tissue. LANAP removes only infected tissue. That’s better for your long-term gum health.
- Recovery is easier: Most patients return to normal activities the next day. You might have some mild soreness, but nothing like traditional surgery.
- It can save teeth: LANAP has been shown to help reattach gum tissue to teeth. For patients facing tooth loss from gum disease, that’s a game-changer.
- It’s safe: LANAP is FDA-cleared and has been used successfully for years. It’s a trusted treatment option.
Is LANAP Right for You?
LANAP works best for patients with mild to moderate gum disease. If your gums bleed when you brush, if you have bad breath that won’t go away, or if your dentist has mentioned deep pockets, LANAP might be a good fit.
That said, every patient is different. The best way to know is to come in for an evaluation. We’ll examine your gums, take measurements, and talk through your options. No pressure. Just honest advice.
Experience the Difference at North Shore Perio
Gum disease doesn’t have to mean surgery and stitches. LANAP offers a modern, gentle alternative that puts your comfort first while still delivering real results.
If you’ve been putting off treatment because you’re nervous, we get it. But waiting only worsens gum disease. Let’s talk about whether LANAP is right for you. Call North Shore Perio & Implantology at 708-834-7080 or schedule an online consultation. We’re in Skokie and ready to help you protect your smile.