LANAP, which stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, uses a laser to perform periodontal surgery once only reserved for a scalpel. Developed by Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc., LANAP surgery is successful in treating gum disease with minimal trauma to the mouth. Traditional gum surgery uses a scalpel to decrease pocket depth and remove the infection – and unfortunately, some healthy tissue is destroyed in the process. Stitches are then placed to reattach the gums to the bone and assist in healing.
The LANAP laser removes the infection from beneath the gum line without compromising healthy gum tissue. LANAP is considered a regenerative procedure: Tissue is not reduced and bone is actually regenerated. The LANAP laser recognizes pigmentation, only destroying bacteria and infected gum tissue, which are darker in color than healthy gums. The LANAP procedure also helps connective tissue and bone form between your teeth and gums, which could help minimize the chance of the infection returning.
LANAP Preparation – First, your dentist may take X-rays or probe the area to determine the depth of your pockets and the extent of the infection.
Anesthesia – Local anesthesia may be used to keep you from feeling any discomfort. LANAP is non-invasive and normally doesn’t require any other form of sedation. But if you are an extremely fearful patient, talk to your dentist about your sedation dentistry options.
LANAP Procedure – Once you are numb, the LANAP laser is inserted between your teeth and gums to remove infected tissue and bacteria. The LANAP laser is extremely tiny (about the thickness of three hairs), designed to fit easily between your gums and teeth.
Post-LANAP Surgery – Once the area is thoroughly cleaned, the heat from the LANAP laser seals the gums to form a blood clot. This helps block bacteria from re-entering and re-infecting the area.
The LANAP procedure usually consists of two 2-hour sessions and two follow-up visits. You can compare LANAP to traditional surgery, which usually takes four surgical procedures and several follow-up visits to remove stitches.
LANAP was designed to meet the growing need for pain-free dentistry. With LANAP, there are no scalpels or sutures and healing time is greatly reduced. The patient feels little to no discomfort during and after the LANAP procedure, which could reduce the need for post-operative prescription medications. Recovery from LANAP surgery often takes less than a day rather than the two to four weeks required for traditional surgery; many patients are able to return to work soon afterwards. Your dentist may also recommend that you follow a soft food or liquid diet for one to two days, as opposed to several weeks following gum surgery.
• Less time spent in the dental chair
• Less mouth trauma caused by the traditional scalpel and sutures procedure
• Less pain, bleeding and swelling
• Easier healing and a faster recovery
• Improved, longer-lasting results
The LANAP procedure provides long-lasting results. Up to 98% of treated patients remain stable after five years. Only 5% of those treated with conventional gum surgery report such results.
If gum disease threatens your teeth, call us to learn how LANAP laser dentistry can help. You can set up an appointment at that time or use this website to schedule your appointment.
The LANAP laser has not entirely eliminated the use of the scalpel. You may still need traditional gum surgery for some procedures. And while LANAP surgery may reduce your progression of gum disease, you still have to practice good oral hygiene and have regular dental visits to help maintain your results.
greg dickson2024-06-05I was a 20 plus year patient of Dr. Yokoyama, and now, after his retirement, a new patient of Dr. Bembey. Having had great care in every way, I am very impressed by Dr. Bembey's knowledge and expertise, and equally impressed by her sincere and caring approach to treatment. Excellent care and experience.Ronn2024-03-31My dentist found what appeared to be a growing cyst that needed to be surgically removed as well as have at least one tooth removed. I was recommended two periodontists. I decided to seek out one more consult as both consults just didn't sit well with me. Dr. Bembey's exam was world's different. She listened to my story, did a thorough examination (much more then either of the others), didn't require additional x-rays (where as one said they required it even though I had done a set just a few weeks prior). Additionally, she went further back in my records to realize that there was a strong chance that she wouldn't have to remove my tooth in surgery. Thank goodness. Now it's been a year - I have my tooth, got surgery to remove and test the cyst and have seen Dr. Bembey for multiple follow-ups. She is hands down the very BEST. I was emotionally exhausted from the search for a periodontist but am so grateful I went to her. I can't recommend her enough.Scott Barnett2024-01-24I’ve never had any serious dental issues for 51 years, but a popcorn kernel changed all that. Dr. Bembey and her staff took care of the lengthening procedure required for my first crown. Dr. Bembey was very attentive and considerate compared to other doctors I’ve dealt with over the years. I regret that I have no plans to return to their office, but if I do I would go out of my way to insure she was my doctor. Thanks again to her and all the ladies in the office. Five star service and skill!!Lindsey Morin2024-01-17I recently had to get some gum grafting. I could not be more pleased by Dr. Bembey and her staff. My whole experience was seamless and the procedure, which I had feared, was not even painful. I highly recommend her expertise and nice demeanor. She is kind, calm and is an excellent periodontist. My before and after photos were amazing, proving her high level skills. I will definitely return to her practice for any future períodontal needs.Deanna Gran2024-01-04I had gum recession due to ortho I received as a teenager which was causing me a lot of pain. Dr. Bembey was extremely knowledgeable and one of the most compassionate doctors I've ever met. I had a gum graft procedure done here 2 years ago, and 2 years later it looks like the recession was never there to begin with. My gum pain is completely gone. It was a fantastic experience here and I would highly recommend this practice to anyone else who needs a gum graft procedure.Peter Madsen2023-12-11Gentle but effective care. Dr. Bembey is very good at explaining the procedures.Taylor Olson2023-12-11Dr. Bembey's practice has indeed been a game-changer for me. As a 26-year-old undergoing gum graft procedures earlier than expected, finding a practice that understands and nurtures this journey has been invaluable. From the outset, Dr. Bembey, Patti, and the rest of the team radiated an aura of warmth and expertise that immediately put me at ease. Waiting until the day of my second gum graft to write this review speaks volumes about their impact on me. The comfort and trust they've instilled in me are unparalleled. Dr. Bembey's profound knowledge in her field is evident, and it translates into confidence that I'm indeed in the best hands possible. Their practice isn't just about dental procedures; it's about creating an environment where patients like me feel understood, supported, and ready to face each step of this process with assurance. Dr. Bembey's proficiency and her team's unwavering support have made this journey far smoother than I ever imagined.michele lindsey2023-09-14So fortunate to have found Dr Bembey and her team -- really terrified of dental work but Dr Bembey's professionalism and kindness made me comfortable. Never waited in waiting room long, all procedures explained and questions answered, she gives the upmost care, even calls post procedure to see how you are doing. Amazing in this day and age!Lucy Decorte2023-08-21I cannot recommend Dr Bembey highly enough. She is thorough, professional, informative and patient. I had a gum graft, which I was not looking forward to, having heard how painful the “donor site” can be. The combination of her knowledge, the technology she uses and her skill made this a positive experience.
I had a wonderful opportunity to see Dr. Bembey! She really knows her stuff! I felt like she had my best interests in mind and she took her time and listened with an open mind and an open heart. I have some really tough dental issues, and she completely understood everything that I was going through and was able to guide me in the right direction. So great full of for her kindness and compassion.
– Shanon E., June 2023
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Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants, 477 North El Camino Real #C-306, Encinitas, CA 92024, 760-632-9055, encinitasperiodontist.com, 6/1/2024, Associated Words: Periodontist Encinitas CA