At Sundial Dental, we are proud to be at the forefront of modern periodontal care.
Our Principal Dentist, Dr. Peter Elfar, was the first dentist to introduce LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) to Australia, offering patients a revolutionary alternative to traditional gum surgery. This minimally invasive treatment is designed to target gum disease effectively while prioritising your comfort and recovery.
A New Era in Gum Disease Treatment
LANAP is an advanced laser protocol used to treat moderate to severe periodontitis (gum disease). Historically, treating deep gum pockets involved cutting away gum tissue, which could lead to recession and sensitive teeth. LANAP changes this approach entirely. It is a regenerative procedure that uses a specific wavelength of laser energy to vaporise bacteria and diseased tissue without harming the healthy gum, ligaments, or bone. The goal is not just to clean the area, but to create the right conditions for the body to regenerate bone and reattach gum tissue to the tooth.
How the LANAP Protocol Works
The procedure is performed using the PerioLase MVP-7, a specialised ND:YAG laser designed specifically for this treatment. The process is precise and methodical:
- Measurement: We use a probe to measure the depth of your gum pockets and identify the extent of the infection.
- Laser Targeting: The laser fibre (about the width of three human hairs) is inserted between the gum and tooth. It selectively removes diseased tissue and kills the bacteria causing the infection, leaving healthy tissue intact.
- Cleaning: Ultrasonic scalers are used to remove tartar (calculus) from the root surface.
- Clot Formation: The laser is used a second time to warm the blood in the pocket, creating a stable, natural seal (clot) that closes the area against new bacteria.
- Bite Adjustment: We smooth out any high spots on your teeth to ensure your bite is balanced, reducing stress on the healing gums.
Who Is This Treatment For?
Gum disease is incredibly common, affecting a significant portion of Australian adults. You may be a candidate for LANAP if:
- You have been diagnosed with periodontitis (moderate to severe gum disease).
- You have been told you need gum surgery but are avoiding it due to fear of pain or cutting.
- You are experiencing bleeding gums, loose teeth, or persistent bad breath.
- You are medically compromised (e.g., taking blood thinners or diabetic) and need a safer, less invasive option than traditional surgery.
The Benefits of Laser Therapy
Because LANAP does not involve scalpels or sutures, the patient experience is significantly different from traditional surgery:
- Less Discomfort: Most patients report little to no pain during or after the procedure.
- Faster Recovery: With no cutting or stitches, most people return to their daily routine almost immediately.
- Tissue Preservation: The laser preserves your gum line, preventing the “long in the tooth” appearance often caused by traditional surgery.
- Regeneration: It is the only FDA-cleared laser protocol proven to support true regeneration of the attachment apparatus (bone and ligament).
