LANAP Laser Dentistry is a pivotal advancement in dental care, particularly concerning gum disease treatment.
This innovative approach utilizes state-of-the-art laser technology to offer patients a minimally invasive alternative to traditional procedures. By precisely targeting diseased tissue and bacteria, LANAP ensures a more comfortable and effective solution for improving periodontal health, making it a game-changer in dentistry.
In recent years, LANAP has garnered considerable attention and recognition for its transformative impact on periodontal treatment. Its ability to minimize discomfort and promote faster healing has made it a preferred option for patients and dental professionals.
What Is LANAP Laser?
LANAP, an acronym for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is a cutting-edge dental technique specifically developed to combat gum disease, scientifically known as periodontitis.
Unlike traditional methods, LANAP harnesses advanced laser technology to precisely target and remove diseased tissue while sparing the surrounding healthy gums. The fundamental principle behind LANAP lies in its precision and effectiveness.
The specialized dental laser used in LANAP procedures emits a highly concentrated beam of light, selectively eliminating bacteria and damaged tissue without causing harm to the adjacent healthy gum tissue. This precise targeting ensures minimal patient discomfort and promotes faster healing than conventional gum disease treatments. LANAP Laser operates at specific wavelengths optimized for targeting the bacteria and infected tissue responsible for gum disease.
By precisely targeting these areas, LANAP effectively eradicates the source of the infection while facilitating the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.
LANAP Laser Treatment Process
The LANAP laser treatment process is designed to address gum disease with precision and effectiveness. Below is a detailed explanation of each step involved in the LANAP treatment:
Comprehensive Evaluation
Before commencing the LANAP procedure, the dental professional thoroughly evaluates the patient's periodontal condition. This evaluation typically involves examining the gums, measuring pocket depths, and assessing the extent of gum disease.
Anesthesia and Preparation
Once the evaluation is complete, the patient is provided with local anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The dentist then meticulously cleans the teeth and gums to remove plaque or tartar buildup.
Laser Treatment
With the patient comfortably numb, the LANAP procedure begins. The dental professional uses a specialized laser to target and remove diseased tissue from the gums. The laser energy is carefully directed to selectively eliminate bacteria and infected tissue while preserving the integrity of the surrounding healthy gums.
Calculus Removal
Following the laser treatment, any remaining calculus (hardened plaque) is thoroughly removed from the tooth and root surfaces using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments. This step ensures that all sources of infection are effectively eliminated.
Blood Clot Formation
As the LANAP laser interacts with the gum tissue, it stimulates the formation of blood clots within the treated areas. These blood clots serve as a protective barrier, promoting tissue regeneration and aiding in the healing process.
Gum Reattachment
Over time, the blood clots formed during the LANAP procedure facilitate the reattachment of the gums to the tooth surfaces. This reattachment process is essential for restoring the health and stability of the gums, ultimately reducing the depth of periodontal pockets and improving overall gum health.
Follow-up Care
After completing the LANAP procedure, the dental professional provides instructions for post-operative care. This typically includes recommendations for oral hygiene practices, dietary modifications, and any prescribed medications to support healing and prevent infection.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Following the LANAP treatment, patients are scheduled for periodic follow-up visits to monitor their progress and ensure optimal healing. These maintenance appointments allow the dental professional to assess gum health, make necessary adjustments, and provide ongoing support for long-term oral health.

Benefits of LANAP Laser Treatment
LANAP Laser Treatment offers many advantages over traditional methods, making it an appealing option for patients seeking effective gum disease treatment. Below are some key benefits of LANAP Laser Treatment:
Minimally Invasive
One of the most significant advantages of LANAP Laser Treatment is its minimally invasive nature. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves incisions and sutures, LANAP requires no cutting or stitches. This results in less trauma to the gums, reduced discomfort during and after the procedure, and a quicker recovery time for patients.
Preservation of Healthy Tissue
LANAP Laser Treatment selectively targets and removes diseased tissue while preserving the surrounding healthy gum tissue. This precision ensures that only the affected areas are treated, minimizing damage to the healthy tissue and promoting better oral health outcomes.
Reduced Discomfort
Due to its minimally invasive nature and precise targeting of diseased tissue, LANAP Laser Treatment typically results in less post-operative discomfort than traditional gum surgery. Patients undergoing LANAP experience minimal pain, swelling, and bleeding, allowing for a more comfortable recovery process.
Faster Healing
LANAP Laser Treatment stimulates the body's natural healing processes, promoting faster tissue regeneration and gum reattachment. As a result, patients experience quicker healing times and can resume normal activities sooner than with traditional gum surgery.
Improved Aesthetic Outcomes
LANAP Laser Treatment can improve aesthetic outcomes by preserving healthy gum tissue and promoting tissue regeneration. Patients often experience less gum recession and better overall gum contouring, resulting in a more natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Reduced Need for Follow-up Procedures
LANAP Laser Treatment typically requires fewer follow-up appointments compared to traditional gum surgery. The precise nature of the laser treatment minimizes the need for additional procedures, leading to fewer visits to the dental office and greater convenience for patients.
Bone Regeneration
In addition to treating gum disease, LANAP Laser Treatment has been shown to stimulate bone regeneration. This is particularly beneficial for patients with advanced gum disease or those at risk of tooth loss, as it helps preserve the integrity of the jawbone and supporting structures.
Laser Periodontist in McMinnville, Oregon
For residents of the Willamette Valley, searching for LANAP Laser Dentistry and finding a skilled and experienced laser periodontist is paramount. By consulting with Dr. Graser, patients can receive personalized care tailored to their specific periodontal needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and oral health.
LANAP Treatment at Willamette Valley Periodontics
LANAP Laser Treatment is a transformative solution in periodontal care, offering patients a minimally invasive and highly effective option for treating gum disease. Contact Willamette Valley Periodontics at (971) 261-1926 today to schedule your appointment!