TYPICAL TREATMENT PROCESS
LANAP can be completed over a single or multiple dental visits.
Step 1: Numbing the tooth: Before starting the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the teeth, gums and surrounding bone tissue. This step ensures that the entire treatment is painless and comfortable for you.
Step 2: Laser Gum Therapy: Once the area is numbed, the dentist uses a specialised laser to carefully remove infected gum tissue. The precision of the laser allows for the removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy tissue. Additionally, the laser eliminates harmful bacteria found deep within gum pockets, which are the primary cause of gum disease.
Step 3: Root Surface Cleaning: After the infected tissue is removed, ultrasonic root cleaners are used to clean the root surfaces. This step removes any tartar or plaque buildup, ensuring that the roots are smooth and free of debris, which is essential for proper gum healing.
Step 4: Gum Tissue Stimulation: The laser will be used again to stimulate the gum tissue. This encourages the formation of a protective seal between the gums and the teeth, which helps to prevent future infections and promotes the healing and regeneration of tissue.
Step 5: Post-operative Follow-up: After completing the LANAP procedure, maintaining long-term oral health is crucial for the treatment's success. Your dentist will provide specific post-treatment instructions, such as how to care for the treated area and any dietary restrictions. Regular follow-up visits are also recommended to monitor healing progress. In some cases, your dentist may adjust your bite to ensure proper tooth alignment, and splints may be suggested to stabilise your teeth following the procedure.
Maintenance Therapy: After your treatment, maintenance therapy is crucial. Periodontal disease can recur within two to four months, despite your diligence in oral care, as plaque continues to accumulate. During maintenance visits, which may last for several months, your dentist will check for plaque buildup and assess your oral hygiene habits. This may include measuring the pockets around your teeth and taking X-rays to evaluate the condition of the bone beneath your teeth. Regular maintenance also includes periodontal scaling and polishing, root planing and is vital for preventing disease relapse and ensuring long-term oral health.