In our practice, Dr. Fullem is a periodontist who is specially trained to perform the FDA-cleared laser treatment called the LANAP® Protocol. This procedure treats the entire mouth when a patient has moderate-severe generalized periodontitis with damage to their gum tissue and jawbone. This is a successful treatment that is less painful than traditional periodontal surgery because it is done with no incisions or need for sutures.
This therapy is performed using the PerioLase MVP-7 dental laser. It is one of the most successful methods in treating periodontal disease because lasers target the source of the inflammation without hurting or removing the healthy gum tissue. This therapy slows attachment loss and decreases periodontal pockets, which helps your body recover from the chronic periodontal infection that has been affecting your mouth. Over time, results from this therapy show regrowth of lost tissue and bone.
LANAP® Protocol is the only proven type of periodontal laser therapy that results in true periodontal regeneration, new jawbone growth, and gum tissue reattachment in areas that have been damaged by periodontal infection.
The LANAP® Protocol Procedure
LANAP® Protocol is performed in two visits. Each visit will treat one side of the mouth, top, and bottom. The procedure is done in the office under local anesthetic (numbing). While you are awake for the procedure, you will be comfortable the entire time.
Using a laser that is the width of about two human hairs, this therapy rids the periodontal pockets of bacteria, diseased tissue, and root debris, which encourages healing and regrowth of healthy tissues.
When you leave, you will not have any stitches or typically need gauze as you leave our office. You will receive special instructions for post-procedural care and will schedule a post-op appointment a few weeks later.
Patient Benefits of LANAP® Protocol
Patients report the following benefit of laser therapy:
- Reduced pain & sensitivity
- Less bleeding and swelling
- Less gum recession
- Minimal downtime after treatment
- Less chance of post-op infections
- Healing that is faster and more comfortable than traditional gum surgery