Superior Laser Gum Disease Treatment at the Specialist’s Office
The effects of gum disease can be reversed when it is treated early in the disease process. By the time gum disease has advanced, damage must be repaired with treatment. In the past, treatment was a very long and often painful process. That’s no longer the case thanks to the Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure® (LANAP), expertly performed by our board-certified periodontist at Glendale Periodontics & Dental Implants.
What is the Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure®?
LANAP® is an FDA-cleared laser periodontal therapy. It allows our team in Glendale, California, to treat damaged gums without invasive cutting, incisions, sutures, discomfort, and lengthy healing. Due to the nature of laser technology, LANAP® targets damaged tissues precisely. Only the tissue that needs to be treated is treated. Surrounding tissue remains intact, which supports your safety, comfort, and the most natural and optimal results.
How is LANAP® performed?
Laser gum treatment is performed with a soft tissue laser that features a fiber no thicker than three hairs. This ultra-thin fiber is inserted in the space or pocket between your teeth and gums. The energy from the laser light then goes to work, selectively removing diseased gum tissue without harming the surrounding, healthy tissue. It also kills the bad bacteria responsible for gum disease. Using a different setting, Dr. Hendry directs the laser toward the treatment site to encourage coagulation, or the formation of a clot, and promote healing.
One of the great virtues of LANAP® is its true regenerative potential. It is the only treatment of its kind recognized by the FDA for its ability to generate new cementum, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone.
What can I expect after my first treatment?
Dr. Hendry also incorporates an ultrasonic scaler into LANAP®. This scaler, along with special instruments, “deep cleans” stubborn tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth. Following treatment, your gums will heal and reattach to the clean, tooth-root surfaces. Complete treatment can be finished in just two, one- to two-hour-long appointments (depending on the severity of the gingival damage). Alternatively, we can also perform the treatment in a single visit. Recovery is also fast. While it takes at least 10 days to heal from traditional gum surgery, most of our patients return to their “normal” activities in 24 hours and go back to work the very next day.
Is laser gum surgery right for me?
LANAP® is not for everyone with gum disease. As a specialist in diagnosing and treating gum disease, Dr. Hendry offers a range of services to heal your gums and prevent further damage. Recommendations are based on what he finds following a thorough evaluation of your gums and mouth. In general, LANAP can treat a wider range of patients and address a greater variety of conditions than traditional gum surgery. Due to its minimally invasive nature and utmost tissue preservation, laser therapy is safe for individuals who might be precluded from other periodontal surgeries, including patients with diabetes, HIV, and hemophilia, and who take blood-thinning medications like Plavix®.
Why should I choose Glendale Periodontics & Dental Implants?
Dr. Hendry is among a select group of ~10% of periodontists to have acquired board certification. As such, he successfully underwent a rigorous training and examination process. In addition to demonstrating a unique level of advanced knowledge and experience, Dr. Hendry is dedicated to lifelong learning. To offer LANAP®, Dr. Hendry earned certification in this procedure by completing a comprehensive training process and demonstrating clinical experience in accordance with the protocol.
Patients from across the Glendale, CA area trust our highly specialized expertise and extensive capabilities. We adhere to only the highest quality and safety standards. To benefit from our expertise, call (818) 240-4555 today to speak with a member of our team and to schedule your consultation.
