If you are one of the millions of Americans diagnosed with gum disease each year, there is some good news when it comes to treatment. Capitol Periodontal Group is proud to offer a new minimally invasive procedure to treat gum disease called Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®), also known as laser gum disease treatment.

The FDA-approved laser gum disease treatment uses a tiny laser fiber (about the thickness of three hairs) that is inserted between the tooth and gum. The laser zaps away only bacteria and infected tissue with much less discomfort compared to standard procedures.

After the cleaning, the laser’s heat seals the gums with a thermal blood clot, creating a physical barrier to any bacteria or tissue that could re-create gum pockets, decreasing the chance of recurrent infection.

All periodontists at Capitol Periodontal Group are licensed and trained to perform the LANAP® laser gum disease treatment that offers the following appealing advantages for patients with gum disease:

• There’s no cutting and no suturing with the laser treatment
• There's much less discomfort after the procedure with the laser treatment than with standard surgery
• Laser treatment takes less time than traditional surgery—generally two 2-hour visits to your periodontist and two follow up visits.
• The laser treatment gives better, longer-lasting results. In fact, 98% of LANAP® treated patients remain stable after five years.
• There's a less than 24-hour recovery period, so you won't lose time from work.
• Always consult with your dentist, but the laser treatment is known to be safe for patients with health concerns such as diabetes, HIV, hemophilia, or those taking medications such as Plavix, or Warfarin.

A Step-by-Step Overview of the
LANAP® Laser Gum Disease Treatment

1. Pocket Measurement: The first step in laser gum disease treatment is to measure the depth of pockets and to determine how much loss of attachment has occurred.
2. Bacteria Removal: Then the bacteria and diseased tissue is removed from the area using a tiny pulsed laser light.
3. Calculus Removal: Calculus is then removed from the surface of the teeth with the use of ultrasonic scalers.
4. Blood Clot Formation: The laser is then used a second time at the bottom of the pocket in order to remove any remaining diseased tissue and to stimulate the formation of a blood clot. This clot will form a protective seal around the tooth.
5. Tissue Compression: The tissue is then recompressed against the surface of the tooth without the use of stitches.
6. Bite Adjustment: Your bite is then examined and corrected to ensure the best results.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation with one of our specialists at Capitol Periodontal Group to determine if you are a good candiate for the laser gum disease treatment.