Laser Gum Surgery (LANAP) Cost
Laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) is a procedure used to treat gum disease and encourage the development of healthy gum and bone tissue. As dental technology advances, treatments become more widely available and are easier for the patient both during treatment and during healing. With the use of lasers, no incisions are needed and healing time is greatly reduced.
Periodontal disease can be detrimental, not only to the health of your mouth, but your overall systemic health. It can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Patients who suffer from underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, are particularly susceptible to issues derived from periodontal disease.
Laser Gum Surgery Cost
The cost of treatment can range between $2000 and $8000. The range is larger because, as with most dental procedures, it greatly depends on how extensive your treatment is. If you only have a small area that needs treatment, you will pay less than someone who needs their entire mouth treated.
Additionally, patients in metropolitan areas can expect to pay more than those in more rural communities. The experience of your provider will also play a significant part in the overall quality and cost of treatment.
LANAP Procedure
The LANAP procedure is a non-invasive gum treatment that uses a pulsed laser to target damaged tissues without negatively impacting healthy tissue. Depending on the extent of damage, treatment can take up to four hours if the whole mouth is being treated.
More traditional treatments for periodontal disease can actually remove healthy gum tissue along with the infected areas. Lasers can pinpoint very small areas for treatment and can be used to target infection around a dental implant.
LANAP Recovery
Laser gum surgery is not invasive, and since no incision is made, sutures are not required. This enables patients to resume their normal routines within a few days of surgery. For one to three days, you will need to stick to a soft foods diet as the healing process begins. Most patients are able to manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Advil.
Some degree of discomfort and swelling is expected, but typically subsides completely within a week. If you feel that you are experiencing severe pain or swelling, or if your surgery site begins to bleed, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible for an evaluation to make sure you have not developed an infection.
Am I a Candidate for Laser Gum Surgery?
As with any dental procedure, it is important to understand the entire process of surgery and recovery. Your provider will perform an evaluation to see if you are a candidate for laser gum surgery. It is important to provide a full medical history and an updated list of any medication that you are taking.
Periodontal disease can have a negative impact on your overall health. Beginning with gum recession, periodontal disease creates a domino effect of bone loss and tooth loss, which is why it is important to see your dentist regularly to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Regular visits also enable your dentist to catch any issues before they progress into something more severe.