LANAP Laser Gum Treatment

LANAP, short for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is a laser-based approach to treating gum disease that avoids the scalpels and sutures used in traditional gum surgery. At Salm Dental, it is one of the options we discuss with patients whose gum disease has progressed beyond what cleanings alone can manage, offering a way to treat infected gum tissue while supporting the body's own healing response.

About LANAP Laser Gum Treatment

LANAP uses a specific laser wavelength to target and remove diseased tissue within the gum pocket while leaving healthy tissue untouched. The laser also helps seal the treated area and can encourage the gum to reattach to the tooth root, which is why it is described as a "new attachment" procedure rather than simple tissue removal.

Traditional periodontal surgery, sometimes called osseous or flap surgery, typically involves cutting back the gum, cleaning the root surfaces, and closing the area with stitches. LANAP was developed as a way to achieve similar cleaning of infected pockets without cutting the gum open, which is why many patients and dentists consider it a gentler alternative for certain stages of gum disease.

How we use it at Salm Dental

Dr. Adam Salm, DMD, incorporates LANAP as part of the periodontal care offered at the practice, alongside related services such as scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, and antimicrobial therapy. For patients whose gum disease is more advanced, or who are not good candidates for traditional flap surgery, LANAP is discussed as a treatment option within that broader plan.

Diagnosis and planning rely on the practice's digital X-rays and intraoral camera, which let Dr. Salm and the patient see the extent of bone and tissue involvement before deciding on a course of treatment. During the laser procedure itself, high-powered suction keeps the mouth clear and comfortable, and nitrous sedation is available for patients who feel anxious about dental treatment. The practice's HEPA air purifiers run throughout the visit to keep the treatment room air clean.

LANAP is one of several tools the practice uses for gum-related concerns; a separate soft-tissue laser is also available for smaller gum procedures that don't call for the LANAP protocol specifically.

What it means for you

For patients dealing with gum disease, a laser-based approach can mean less bleeding during treatment and a gentler experience overall compared with cutting and suturing. Because the gum tissue is not incised in the same way, recovery is often described as more comfortable, with less swelling in the days that follow.

LANAP is generally considered by dentistry as suitable for patients who want to avoid traditional gum surgery, or whose health history makes them better candidates for a less invasive option. It can also make it easier to have a clear conversation about treatment, since the same digital X-rays and intraoral photos used for diagnosis can be reviewed with the patient before deciding whether LANAP is the right fit.

What to expect during your visit

A LANAP visit typically begins with a review of your gum health, including your history of cleanings, any prior periodontal treatment, and current X-rays. Dr. Salm will examine the depth of the gum pockets around your teeth to confirm that laser treatment is appropriate for your situation.

During the procedure, the laser is guided along the gum line to remove diseased tissue from within the pocket. Most patients feel pressure or vibration rather than sharp pain, and numbing anesthesia is used as needed. Depending on how many areas of the mouth are being treated, the appointment can take longer than a routine cleaning, since the laser works pocket by pocket.

Afterward, you may be advised to eat softer foods for a short period and to avoid vigorous brushing right at the treatment site while it heals. Follow-up visits are used to check healing and to fold LANAP into your ongoing periodontal maintenance schedule.

Frequently asked questions

Is LANAP safe?

LANAP is a laser protocol that has been used in dentistry as an alternative to traditional gum surgery. As with any dental laser treatment, it is performed with attention to the specific tissue being treated and the patient's overall oral health, and Dr. Salm will confirm it's an appropriate option for you before proceeding.

Does LANAP hurt?

Most patients feel pressure or warmth rather than sharp pain during the procedure, since numbing anesthesia is used at the treatment site. Nitrous sedation is also available at the practice for patients who want extra help staying relaxed in the chair.

How long does treatment take, and how many visits are needed?

The length of a LANAP visit depends on how many areas of the mouth need treatment, since the laser is used pocket by pocket rather than in one broad pass. Some patients complete treatment in a single extended visit, while others are scheduled over more than one appointment as part of a broader periodontal plan.

Who is LANAP suitable for?

LANAP is generally considered for patients with gum disease that has progressed beyond what routine cleanings can address, particularly those who want to avoid the cutting and suturing involved in traditional gum surgery. Dr. Salm will review your gum health and history to determine whether LANAP, another laser option, or a different periodontal treatment is the better fit.

If you're dealing with gum disease and want to know whether LANAP could be part of your treatment, get in touch with Salm Dental to schedule a visit and talk it through with Dr. Salm.