Do Gums Grow Back After LANAP?
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, you may be exploring treatment options and wondering whether your gums can recover after LANAP. Gum disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing more of the tooth and sometimes leading to sensitivity or discomfort. LANAP, or Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an advanced treatment that targets infected tissue while encouraging healing. If you’re considering LANAP, read on to learn about what you should know about the procedure and the future of your gums.
How Does LANAP Work?
LANAP is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a specialized laser to remove diseased gum tissue without harming healthy tissue. By eliminating bacteria and targeting only the infected areas, LANAP creates a cleaner, healthier environment that supports natural healing. The laser’s energy also stimulates the release of growth factors, which play a role in promoting the regeneration of gum and bone tissue.
During the procedure, your dentist will first measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth to assess the extent of the disease. The laser is then used to eliminate bacteria and diseased tissue from these pockets. Once the area has been treated, ultrasonic tools may be used to remove hardened plaque from the tooth surfaces. Finally, the laser is applied again to stimulate the soft tissue and encourage the formation of a protective clot that seals the treated area.
Can Gums Grow Back After LANAP?
While LANAP can support the regeneration of gum tissue, it’s important to understand what that means. The procedure creates favorable conditions for the gums to reattach to the teeth and for new tissue growth to occur. In many cases, this process can reduce pocket depth and improve gum coverage. However, the degree of regrowth will depend on several factors, including the severity of gum recession and the overall health of the supporting bone.
LANAP does not involve grafting tissue from another area of the mouth, so it may not fully restore gum levels in cases of significant recession. For patients with more advanced gum loss, additional treatments such as a gum graft or the Pinhole Surgical Technique may be recommended to further improve gum coverage.
Why Patients Choose LANAP
One of the reasons LANAP is widely preferred is its ability to treat gum disease with less discomfort and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery. Patients often report minimal pain and swelling after the procedure and can return to normal activities more quickly. The laser’s precision also allows for a more conservative approach, preserving more of the natural gum tissue.
What Should You Expect Next?
If you’re considering LANAP, speak with your dentist to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure and what kind of results you can expect. While LANAP can support gum regeneration and improve attachment levels, each case is unique. Your dental professional can help you understand how LANAP fits into your overall treatment plan and whether additional procedures may be needed to achieve the best outcome for your gums.