Laser Gum Disease Therapy With The LANAP Laser
No Cut, No Sew, The Latest In Effective And Comfortable Treatment

LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a patented treatment used with the Periolase laser system. This specific protocol has obtained FDA approval for gum disease treatment. Currently, Dr. Downing is the only general practice dentist in the Columbia area trained and equipped to provide this advanced care for his patients. Dr. Downing is excited to be able to make LANAP laser gum disease therapy available to gum disease sufferers throughout the Midlands.

What does LANAP do for you?

If you are one of the millions of adults that suffer from periodontal disease there are a number of benefits that you will likely find.

What is Periodontal Disease?

It's an infection of the gums. It starts out as plaque, an opaque film on the teeth that hardens to form calculus or tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria which attack the soft tissue around the gums. This early stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. Symptoms include red swollen gums, bleeding, bad breath and, sometimes, an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Untreated, Gingivitis becomes Periodontitis. At this severe stage, bacteria destroy both the gums and the supporting bone structure. Pockets form where teeth are separated from the gums and surrounding bones. Left untreated, Periodontitis often results in tooth loss.

Signs that you may have periodontal disease

LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY (LANAP) FAQ's

What is LANAP? How does it work?
Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is an FDA-approved treatment of periodontitis or gum disease. LANAP, also known as Laser Periodontal Therapy, is fast and minimally disruptive. LANAP is a procedure where a laser passes between the teeth and gums to gently remove diseased or inflamed soft tissue and kill bacteria.

Will Laser Periodontal Therapy be painful?
Laser Periodontal Therapy requires no cutting or stitches compared to traditional respective surgery. Most patients report less discomfort. " Is it safe to put a laser in my mouth? Yes. The laser features a very small fiber to reach only the portion of the gums requiring treatment. It gently passes between the teeth and gums, without affecting other parts of the mouth.

How long does laser gum surgery take?
It typically requires one or two visits after the initial consultation. Depending on the extent of your gum disease, we'll typically treat one half of your mouth during each session. Then regular follow up cleaning every 3 months support the healing process.

How long does it take to recover from the laser gum procedure?
Recovery time varies for each patient. Following traditional gum surgery, recovery can take between 2-6 weeks during which patients can experience varying amounts of pain and swelling. With Laser Periodontal Therapy, there is typically a less-than-24-hour recovery period. The laser specifically targets inflamed tissue and bacteria and because there is no cutting involved, recovery is enhanced and more comfortable.

My dentist recommends traditional gum surgery. How do I know the laser periodontal therapy is right for me?
No single treatment is right for everyone. Contact us for a no-fee consultation and evaluation.

Can people with diabetes or other health concerns take advantage of the laser gum therapy?
Yes. LANAP is safe for patients with health concerns such as diabetes, hemophilia, or those taking such medications as Coumadin or Plavix.

How much does the laser gum procedure cost?
Laser gum therapy is often less expensive than traditional gum surgery because it requires less visits to the doctor.

Will the laser gum procedure be covered by my insurance?
Exact coverage depends upon your individual dental insurance. But if your insurance covers traditional gum surgery, it will cover the laser gum treatment as well. Ask us, and we will help you obtain a predetermination of your coverage.