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Laser Periodontal Therapy in Miami (LANAP®)
Treatment for gum disease can cause discomfort. However, leaving your gums untreated can lead to gingivitis or, even worse, periodontitis. Fortunately, Dr. Gallardo’s office in Miami offers Laser Periodontal Therapy, a less stressful and more effective option than traditional surgery, with a quicker recovery time.
Stop Gum Disease with LANAP Treatment
- No scalpels, no stitches: With LANAP, you'll enjoy a minimally invasive treatment that’s comfortable and easy, with less pain and a quicker recovery.
- Heal faster: You’ll be back to your routine in no time—LANAP promotes faster healing compared to traditional gum surgery.
- Save your healthy gums: The laser precisely targets infected areas, leaving more of your healthy gum tissue intact.
- Regrow and protect: LANAP helps your gums and bone regenerate, which means stronger teeth and better long-term health.
- Expert care with Dr. Gallardo: You're in the best hands—get personalized, cutting-edge treatment right here in Miami!
What is LANAP® Laser Gum Surgery?
LANAP®, which stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an advanced treatment method for periodontal disease. This laser technology targets and eliminates the source of inflammation without harming any healthy gum tissue.
The procedure promotes true periodontal regeneration, new bone growth, and infected tissue reattachment, offering a successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery and other dental treatments.
Why Opt for LANAP® Over Traditional Gum Surgery
LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy presents a modern approach to treating gum disease, offering distinct advantages over traditional methods.
Unlike conventional procedures that involve scalpel incisions and sutures, LANAP® employs a specialized Nd:YAG laser to specifically target diseased gum tissue without affecting the healthy surrounding tissue. This precise, minimally invasive procedure results in less pain, swelling, and bleeding, while reducing the risk of bacterial infection.
LANAP® also promotes periodontal regeneration, encouraging bone growth and preserving natural teeth, leading to faster recovery. Performed by Dr. Gallardo, a skilled periodontist, it ensures both safety and effectiveness.
Good Candidates for LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy
LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy can be an effective treatment option for a wide range of patients suffering from gum disease, whether it’s mild gingivitis or advanced periodontitis. Ideal candidates are:
- Individuals who have deep periodontal pockets, receding gums, or loose teeth due to gum disease.
- Patients who have not responded well to traditional treatments or those who prefer a less invasive alternative.
- Smokers, who often face challenges with healing, may be potential candidates for LANAP®, although their success rates may be lower.
Dr. Gallardo will conduct a thorough examination and consultation to determine if LANAP® is the right treatment option for your specific needs.
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How Does Laser Gum Surgery Work?
The LANAP® protocol utilizes laser technology to combat the root cause of gum disease. The laser energy emitted is selectively absorbed by the inflamed gum tissue and the bacteria causing the infection, leaving the healthy tissue unharmed. This targeted approach allows for the efficient removal of diseased tissue and the eradication of harmful bacteria without the need for scalpel incisions or sutures.
The laser also helps to stimulate the body’s natural healing process, promoting new bone growth and the reattachment of gum tissue to the root surfaces of the teeth. This innovative method of treating gum disease ensures a comfortable and successful treatment experience.
LANAP® Consultation in Miami, FL
During your consultation, Dr. Gallardo will check your gums and go over your medical history. He might use digital X-rays to understand the extent of bone loss and measure pocket depths, and then suggest the best treatment for you. He’ll also answer any questions to make sure you feel comfortable and informed.
Before your LANAP® treatment, you’ll get clear instructions on how to prepare for a successful outcome, like changes to your oral care, avoiding some medications, eating soft foods, and not smoking to help with healing.
The LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy Procedure
LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy is a meticulous process designed to maximize patient comfort and treatment effectiveness.
Step 1
Anesthesia
Dr. Gallardo will begin by applying a local anesthetic to numb the affected area, ensuring you remain comfortable during the procedure.
Step 2
Initial Laser Treatment
Dr. Gallardo will use the LANAP® laser to target and remove harmful bacteria and diseased gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact.
Step 3
Tartar Removal
Next, Dr. Gallardo will remove tartar buildup from the root surfaces using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments.
Step 4
Final Laser Cleaning and Sealing
Finally, the LANAP® laser is used again to clean and seal the gum pockets, creating a barrier to prevent new bacteria from entering and supporting natural healing.
LANAP® Recovery
Healing From the LANAP® Procedure
Recovery from LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy is typically faster and more comfortable than traditional gum surgery. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume their normal activities within a few days.
Dr. Gallardo will provide you with post-treatment instructions to ensure a smooth healing process, which may include avoiding brushing or flossing for the first 7-10 days and adhering to a soft diet. It is essential to follow these instructions and maintain good oral hygiene to achieve optimal results and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
Why Choose Dr. Gallardo for LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy?
Selecting Dr. John Paul Gallardo for your periodontal needs means choosing a top-tier professional in the Miami, FL, area. Here’s why:
- Proven Expertise: With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Gallardo is an authority in periodontics.
- Experience: He has extensive training in advanced treatment methods, including LANAP® Laser Periodontal Therapy.
- Highest Level of Care: Patients receive the highest standard of care under his supervision.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Dr. Gallardo employs the latest technology for optimal treatment outcomes.
- Innovative Techniques: He utilizes cutting-edge techniques to ensure effective treatment.
- Patient Satisfaction: His dedication to patient satisfaction is evident in every aspect of his work.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Dr. Gallardo focuses on minimally invasive treatments for patient comfort and quick recovery.
By choosing Dr. Gallardo for your gum disease treatment, you are entrusting your dental health to a dedicated expert committed to delivering the best possible results with a patient-first approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About LANAP®
How much does LANAP® cost?
The cost of LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) varies based on the severity of your periodontal disease and the number of sessions required. Typically, more severe cases or those requiring multiple treatments will result in a higher overall cost.
What is the recovery time after a LANAP® procedure?
The recovery time following a LANAP® laser procedure can depend on the extent of your gum disease and how your body responds to the treatment. Generally speaking, most patients experience minimal discomfort during recovery and can get back to their normal routine in just a few days.
What other treatment options are available for gum disease?
In addition to LANAP®, those suffering from gum disease have several other treatment options. These include traditional surgical treatments such as flap surgery or bone grafting as well as non-surgical procedures like scaling, root planning, and antimicrobial therapy. Your dentist or periodontist can help you decide which option is best suited for your individual needs.
Is LANAP® safe?
Dental lasers such as LANAP® are safe when they are used by a highly trained and experienced periodontist like Dr. Gallardo. During a LANAP® procedure, you can expect to wear protective glasses to ensure optimal safety for your sensitive eyes.
Is LANAP® painful?
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of LANAP® is the fact that it offers far less pain and discomfort than traditional surgery. There are no cuts and sutures involved and patients typically experience minimal to no pain during a LANAP® treatment. Local anesthetic is used to further improve patient comfort.
What type of laser is used in LANAP®?
LANAP® involves the use of the PerioLase® MVP-7™laser, which is the only laser that is approved by the FDA and has extensive research supporting its claims for gum disease treatment. Additionally, this laser is very selective in the tissues it affects.
What makes a periodontist trained to use a laser?
There are a variety of educational courses and manufacturer training courses that allow periodontists like Dr. Gallardo to become experts in laser therapy. Also, many dental schools, professional dental associations, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry offer laser education for dental professionals. Dr. Gallardo will be more than happy to share his training and experience with you if you have questions.
Are smokers candidates for LANAP®?
If you are a smoker, you may still be a candidate for LANAP®. However, healing may be impaired and the results may not be as successful. Dr. Gallardo can educate you on several smoking cessation programs so you can enjoy the very best results and improve your overall health.
How many LANAP® treatments are necessary?
LANAP® is a fairly quick procedure that requires two 2-hour sessions rather than four 1-hour sessions and multiple follow-ups that traditional surgery requires. Since it doesn’t involve any cutting of the gums, you won’t have to worry about significant bleeding, stitches, or infections after the procedure.
How long will I need to stay home after laser periodontal surgery?
If you are a busy parent or working professional, you don’t have to worry about LANAP® disrupting your lifestyle. After the procedure, the majority of patients return their regular activities the next day. Any discomfort can be managed with an over-the-counter pain medication. Your diet will need to change for the first week following the procedure, but otherwise, normal activities can be resumed.