Gum disease can get worse over time. In its advanced stages, it damages the supporting structures around your teeth.
This creates gaps, or pockets, that can expose the roots and make your teeth feel loose. Our dental care team in Bensalem offers comprehensive dental care, including solutions for periodontal disease.
We offer LANAP to treat advanced periodontal disease. LANAP is a unique, minimally invasive procedure that can restore the health of severely impacted gums. Our office also provides comprehensive restorative dentistry treatments to new and existing patients.
LANAP: How Does It Work?
Our team uses a gentle laser treatment called LANAP. This laser targets only the damaged gum tissue. It also helps your body heal naturally. We guide a very thin laser fiber along your gum line to treat the infected areas and pockets around your teeth.
The laser removes bacteria with heat and helps create a healing blood clot. This clot acts as a foundation for new, healthy tissue to grow. As the gums heal, soft tissue and supporting bone will begin to regenerate.
LANAP takes two visits. We treat one side of your mouth per visit. You might have some swelling and soreness for a few days after.
We will give you care instructions for diet and cleaning to help you heal well. Despite some minor restrictions, most patients resume their normal routine quickly.
LANAP: FAQs
LANAP is an advanced treatment not offered at every dentist office. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Am I a candidate for LANAP?
The first step in determining whether LANAP is the right solution for your needs is to schedule a visit with one of our dentists. After an exam, we can discuss your treatment options and what results you can expect. The LANAP procedure is an option for most people. You may still qualify even if you previously heard that only surgery could help.
Does dental insurance cover LANAP?
This will vary depending on your specific policy and covered services. We will work with you to determine if dental benefits are available. We also offer other payment options, including third-party financing.
Is LANAP a painful treatment?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort when using a local anesthetic.
How long do results last?
To make your LANAP results last, maintain excellent oral hygiene and see your dentist routinely. Your treatment must also find and address the root cause of your gum disease for a successful outcome. Our dental care team will work with you to provide personalized hygiene advice and dental care.
Does LANAP require sedation?
LANAP doesn’t usually require sedation, but we can use it if you’re anxious or need extensive work. Most patients only need local anesthesia to numb the area because the procedure is minimally invasive. If you prefer sedation, we can offer options like oral sedation or nitrous oxide to keep you comfortable.
Do you need antibiotics after LANAP?
You don’t need antibiotics after LANAP in most cases. The laser reduces bacteria and promotes healing, making antibiotics unnecessary. However, we might prescribe them if there’s a risk of infection or other concerns. Our dental team will always provide you with instructions for any prescribed medications.