| ✅ Reviewed by Dr. Tom McCawley | 🕒 Reading time: three minutes |
Reading time: three minutes
LANAP offers a minimally invasive way to treat gum disease without cutting, stitches, or long recovery times. If you are comparing periodontal treatment options and want a clear explanation of how LANAP works, how long the procedure takes, and what the process looks like, this guide walks you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.
What Makes LANAP Different?
LANAP uses selective Nd:YAG laser energy to remove diseased tissue and eliminate harmful bacteria while preserving healthy gum structure. Because the laser targets only what is infected, treatment causes far less inflammation and bleeding than traditional surgery.
LANAP is also the only periodontal laser protocol cleared by the FDA to regenerate bone around teeth, something conventional gum surgery cannot accomplish .
Our Science-Based Approach to Diagnosing Gum Disease
Before we begin LANAP, we use a microbiology-focused diagnostic process to understand the infection at its source. Gum disease is caused by specific bacteria, and identifying these organisms allows us to tailor treatment with greater accuracy.
We take a live sample from beneath the gumline and examine it using a phase-contrast microscope. This gives us a real-time view of bacteria, parasites, and fungi that contribute to periodontal disease. Over the years, we have analyzed more than 150,000 microscopic slides, giving us deep insight into which microorganisms are present and how they respond to treatment .
In more advanced cases, we may also send a sample for laboratory culturing to identify the species involved and determine whether targeted antimicrobial therapy should be paired with LANAP .
This diagnostic foundation allows us to design treatment plans that are highly precise and personalized.
LANAP Procedure Details
LANAP is completed in two treatment visits, each focused on one half of the mouth.
1. Diagnosis and Microscopic Testing
We begin with periodontal measurements, digital imaging, and a microscopic evaluation of live bacteria. These results guide every part of the treatment plan and allow us to track healing at follow-up visits.
2. LANAP Session One
A thin Nd:YAG laser fiber is placed gently into the periodontal pocket. The laser removes diseased tissue, kills bacteria, and minimizes inflammation while preserving healthy gum tissue.
We then use ultrasonic instruments to clean the root surfaces. A second laser pass creates a stable fibrin clot that seals the pocket and initiates the body’s natural healing and regeneration process .
3. LANAP Session Two
The opposite side of the mouth is treated the same way, typically within a week. Each appointment generally takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on the severity of gum disease.
Can LANAP Save “Hopeless” Teeth?
LANAP is often an effective option for saving teeth once considered “hopeless.” Because the laser promotes bone regeneration, we frequently see significant improvements in tooth stability and periodontal health.
One case stands out clearly. A patient came to us after being told by another provider that they would lose all their teeth due to severe gum disease. Overwhelmed by dental anxiety, the patient had postponed treatment. By providing compassionate care, addressing their concerns, and offering sedation options, we performed the LANAP treatment, ultimately saving their teeth. This case reflects our commitment to personalized care, advanced technology, and saving our patients’ smiles for a lifetime.
For implant patients, we use a related laser protocol called LAPIP to treat peri-implantitis. This approach targets infection around implants using the same selective Nd:YAG laser technology and has proven successful even in cases where traditional methods fall short .
Who Is a Good Candidate?
LANAP may be appropriate if you:
- Have moderate or severe gum disease
- Have failing dental implants (LAPIP)
- Want to avoid cutting and stitches
- Prefer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery
- Have experienced gum or bone loss
- Struggle with dental anxiety
- Have been told you may lose teeth to periodontal disease
A full clinical exam and microscopic analysis help determine candidacy with precision.
Schedule a Consultation in Ft. Lauderdale
If you are considering LANAP and want to understand your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation so we can evaluate your gums, review your imaging, and determine the best path forward for your oral health.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call (954) 807-4829 or visit us at 800 East Broward Blvd #706 Fort Lauderdale, FL.
FAQs
LANAP costs vary depending on the severity of gum disease and how many areas require treatment. The best way to determine your exact cost is through a consultation, where we evaluate your gums, review imaging, and provide a personalized treatment plan.
Many insurance plans provide coverage for LANAP because it is a recognized periodontal treatment. Coverage varies by provider, but we can review your benefits and help you understand what your plan includes.
