For anyone who has been told they need gum surgery, the words “cutting” and “stitches” can be enough to delay treatment altogether. Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions in adults, and when it reaches a moderate to severe stage, doing nothing is simply not an option. The good news is that there is a highly effective, minimally invasive alternative that allows patients to address the problem without the fear that has kept so many of them on the sidelines.
At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, we offer LANAP laser gum surgery as a proven solution for patients facing significant gum disease treatment needs. Dr. Daniel Reich is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, bringing advanced training and a commitment to patient comfort to every procedure. No referral is needed to schedule a consultation, and same-day emergency appointments are available for urgent concerns.
What Is LANAP and How Does It Work?
LANAP, which stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an FDA-cleared laser therapy designed specifically to treat moderate to severe periodontal disease. Rather than using a scalpel to cut away infected tissue, the treatment uses a specialized dental laser to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from the gum pockets while leaving healthy tissue intact.
The LANAP Process
The procedure works in a series of targeted steps that promote healing from the inside out. The laser fiber is carefully inserted between the gum and the tooth, where it eliminates harmful bacteria and diseased tissue. After the laser pass, ultrasonic instruments are used to clean the root surface, and a second laser pass seals the area, creating a clot that helps the gum reattach and regenerate. No scalpel. No stitches. No lengthy downtime.
Key Benefits of LANAP Laser Therapy
The appeal of LANAP extends well beyond avoiding a scalpel, and patients are often surprised by how many ways this approach improves on traditional surgical treatment. Research published in a 2023 study on PubMed found that LANAP was associated with greater reductions in pocket depth compared to scaling and root planing alone, along with improved clinical outcomes overall. For patients in our practice, the benefits often come down to a few key factors:
- Less discomfort: because there is no cutting or suturing, patients typically report far less pain both during and after the procedure
- Faster recovery: most patients return to their normal routines within 24 hours, compared to the longer recovery associated with traditional gum surgery
- Preserved healthy tissue: the laser selectively targets diseased and infected tissue, leaving the surrounding healthy gum structure intact
- Tissue and bone regeneration: the procedure stimulates the body’s natural healing response, encouraging gum tissue and supporting bone to regenerate over time
- Reduced risk of infection: the laser sterilizes the treatment area during the procedure, lowering the chance of post-treatment complications
These advantages make LANAP a compelling option, especially for patients who have been putting off treatment due to concerns about pain or recovery.
Is LANAP Right for You?
LANAP is designed for patients with moderate to severe periodontitis who need more than what scaling and root planing can address on its own. It is also a strong option for patients who are medically compromised or who take blood thinners, since the minimally invasive nature of the procedure reduces bleeding significantly. Patients who have previously avoided treatment due to dental anxiety often find LANAP to be a far more manageable experience than they expected.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis or have noticed signs like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, it may be time to explore whether laser therapy is the right next step. Our LANAP treatment guide provides a thorough overview of what the process involves, from the initial consultation through recovery and follow-up care.
Understanding Gum Disease and Why Treatment Matters
Periodontal disease does not stay contained to the gums. Left untreated, it progresses into the bone structure that supports the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Research has also connected advanced gum disease to systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Treating it effectively is not just about saving teeth; it is about protecting overall health.
Early-stage gum disease can often be managed through gingivitis treatment options that do not require surgery. But when disease has advanced, patients need a periodontist with the training and technology to match the severity of the condition. That is where LANAP, in the hands of a skilled provider, makes a meaningful difference.
Schedule a Consultation at Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants
At Middlesex Periodontics & Dental Implants, we understand that choosing a treatment path is a significant decision, and we take the time to make sure every patient understands their options before moving forward. Dr. Reich’s background includes his D.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania, a residency at SUNY Stony Brook, and a current academic role as Director and Associate Professor of Periodontics at Yeshiva University College of Dental Medicine. LANAP starting at $2,500 per quadrant, and we accept Delta Dental Premier and Cigna PPO, as well as Cherry Financing for patients who need flexible payment options.
If gum disease has been on your mind and traditional surgery has been holding you back, LANAP may be the answer you have been looking for. To get started, reach out by calling us at 732-257-7300 and schedule your consultation today.