LANAP - Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure

Many do not know it, but approximately 75% of American adults (35 years and older) have some form of periodontal disease. The main reason that so many are unaware that they have this disease is that it is painless. It is also hiding under the gum tissue and lips.

In the past the options for treatment were limited. Older techniques would be invasive, causing pain, long healing times, recession, spaces between teeth, and cold sensitivity.

Some patients would avoid needed treatment, utilizing scaling and root planing and local antibiotics that research indicates to have limited effectiveness in advanced cases. This would result in continued gum and bone loss with tooth loss down the road.

Dr. Segal is the first periodontist in the North/Northwest Chicago suburbs fully trained and licensed to perform the FDA cleared and patented LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure).

The LANAP laser utilizes the ideal wavelength, at the optimum power and pulse duration. The area treated is gently numbed with topical anesthetics followed by local ensthetic. Twilight sedation is available if desired.

Steps in LANAP Therapy:

• A periodontal probe is in place to accurately measure the depth of the bone loss.
• Pulsed laser light selectively removes the diseased and infected tissue from the inside of the pocket. The laser is so precise that it does not affect the healthy tissue. The laser light also kill the bacteria in the pocket.
• Special scalers are used to remove the tartar. The tartar has been loosened by the laser light so it comes off more easily than during traditional scaling.
• Laser light is again used, but at a different setting. This pass with the laser makes a firm clot that connects the gum to the root surface forming a fibrin clot.
• The tissue is pressed against the root surface and the fibrin clot forms at the top of the gum.
• The bite is adjusted so that the teeth do not traumatize each other when you chew. A night guard is also used to take away the excessive forces from the teeth and allow the optimal healing. We’ll give you special dietary recommendations to optimize the results. Usually Tylenol or Advil is all that is needed after treatment to keep you comfortable.

Q: How long does it take?

A: There are usually two treatment appointments, one for each side of your mouth. Each appointment is about 2 hours. There are several short follow-up appointments. There are also cleaning appointments every three months.

Q: Is it safe?

A: LANAP is the ONLY FDA approved procedure for treating periodontal disease. Research including histology prove that new bone and attachment to your teeth.It is important to note that every patient's healing is different. Results do vary. How well you comply with your post treatment instructions, how well you keep your teeth clean, wear your night guard, and keep the three month cleaning appointments will have a big influence in your results. If you follow the steps in the protocol, the protocol works.