What is LAPIP
LAPIP stands for Laser Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure and is used to save a dental implant when it has become infected or is at risk of coming out. When the gum tissue around a dental implant develops gum disease, the tissue becomes inflamed and the bone can begin to deteriorate. The bone, ligaments, and gum tissue all hold the implant in place and if they are compromised, the implant can fail.
How does LAPIP work?
LAPIP (not to be confused with LANAP) uses a periolase laser to clear out infection, affected tissue and bone and to encourage healthy new growth of bone to keep the implant stable. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area before treatment which can usually be completed in one or two, 2 hour appointments.
During treatment, your periodontist will use the periolase laser to eradicate bacteria, infected tissue, and any debris in the gum pockets around the implant. They will then utilize an ultrasonic scaler to remove any surface contaminants before using the laser one more time, this time to encourage a blood clot with bone stem cells which will help encourage new bone growth and tissue attachment to the implant.
What are the benefits of LAPIP?
Using the LAPIP technique has great benefits to the patient! Healing is easier and faster, the implant is healthy, and the procedure itself is much more comfortable for the patient.
LAPIP usually only needs one or two, 2 hour visits and the patient generally recovers within 24 hours. Traditional treatment for peri-implantitis requires incisions and sutures and takes much longer, often up to four hours, followed by multiple follow up visits. Sometimes, a bone graft is also necessary. It is a much more comfortable procedure and recovery.
Treatment with LAPIP enables the body to naturally regenerate lost bone and gum tissue to create a stable foundation for the implant. This can save the patient from needing the implant removed and starting the implant process all over again, which may not even be an option, depending on the health of the patient.
LAPIP Alternative
The most common treatment for implant failure was the removal and replacement of the implant, until LAPIP came to be. Replacing a failed implant is an extensive, complicated process that requires multiple treatments. The implant has to be removed, a bone graft has to be placed, and then a new implant is placed. This can take up to six months to complete whereas treatment with LAPIP only takes a couple of hours then minimal healing time.
Peri-implantitis can threaten the health and stability of your implant and smile. It is important to see your periodontist at the first sign of trouble so they can begin treatment right away to prevent further damage to the area and possible implant failure.