Is LANAP Treatment Painful?
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, you may be weighing your treatment options and wondering whether LANAP is a painful procedure. LANAP, which stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, has become a popular alternative to traditional gum surgery for treating periodontal disease. Many patients choose it because it offers a less invasive approach, but often wonder what it feels like and if it will be painful. If you’re considering LANAP and want to understand what to expect, read on to learn more.
How Does LANAP Work?
Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves cutting away diseased tissue with a scalpel, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser to target infected areas while preserving healthy gum tissue. The laser’s wavelength is designed to eliminate bacteria and diseased tissue without damaging the surrounding structures. This precision allows for a gentler treatment process and ultimately leads to less trauma and faster healing.
During the procedure, your dentist begins by measuring the depth of the periodontal pockets to assess the extent of the disease. The laser is then used to remove harmful bacteria and infected tissue. Once the area is cleaned, ultrasonic tools are used to remove any hardened plaque, known as calculus, from the tooth and bone surfaces. The laser is applied again to stimulate the tissue and encourage the formation of a protective clot around the tooth. This clot acts as a natural seal, creating a stable environment for healing.
Is LANAP Painful?
Most patients find LANAP to be a relatively comfortable experience. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain while the treatment is being done. Many patients describe feeling little more than mild pressure or warmth from the laser. Because the laser targets only diseased tissue, there is less inflammation and irritation to surrounding healthy tissue, which contributes to a more comfortable recovery.
After the procedure, you may experience slight tenderness or sensitivity as your gums heal. However, this discomfort is typically minimal and short-lived. Many patients find they can resume normal activities within a day or two, without needing prescription pain medication. In contrast, traditional gum surgery often results in more significant pain and a longer healing period, which may require medication and more downtime.
Why Patients Choose LANAP
The reduced pain and faster healing associated with LANAP are two of the main reasons patients prefer this treatment over traditional gum surgery. LANAP also helps maintain the natural shape of the gumline, allowing for a more aesthetic outcome. By promoting tissue regeneration and reducing bacterial levels, LANAP supports healthier gums and improves the chances of long-term success.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’ve been told you need treatment for gum disease, speak with your dentist or periodontist to find out whether LANAP is an option for you. This laser-based procedure offers a gentler approach to treating periodontal disease, with less discomfort and a quicker return to daily life. Your dental professional can help you understand whether LANAP fits your needs and explain what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.