LANAP, a Laser Periodontal Therapy, is an amazing breakthrough in periodontal treatment.

Dr. Steve Hamrick, Dr. Shep McKenzie and Dr. Travis Whitley are fully trained and licensed to perform Laser Periodontal Therapy using LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), an FDA cleared and patented laser procedure that greatly reduces the pain and recovery time associated with traditional gum surgery used for treating gum disease.

What is gum disease? Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection that destroys the gums and supporting bone surrounding your teeth. It starts off as plaque, an opaque film which eventually hardens, forming tarter or calculus. These deposits harbor bacteria which infect the gums. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), more than 60% of the adult population has periodontal disease. Bleeding gums, tooth movement, loose teeth, bad breath, or pain associated with brushing, are all symptoms of periodontal disease. There is scientific evidence of a direct link between gum disease and a variety of other major health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, miscarriages, and diabetes.

The way to repair the damage is to get rid of the infection and close up the infected pockets. LANAP is a minimally-invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. It uses the world’s first digital dental laser – the PerioLase MVP-7, to remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissue from the gum pocket by passing a laser light between the gum and tooth. This laser fiber is about as wide as three human hairs. Patients don’t hear or feel it – except for a little warmth.

The procedure’s method of eliminating germs from the gums is very similar to lifting ink from a paper. First, the laser uses heat to strip away the diseased gum. The laser only seeks out infected tissue, which is darker in color than healthy tissue, leaving healthy tissue in place. Then, the dentist uses the laser a second time to heat the area until a clot is formed, protecting the newly lasered tissue by sealing it. This allows the body to heal naturally so that the gum pockets improve and the teeth become more stable. General anesthesia is not necessary because Laser Periodontal Therapy is much less traumatic. A local anesthetic is used to eliminate any possible discomfort.