LANAP Laser Periodontal Procedures Northbrook, IL

Why LANAP Is Right For You

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LANAP Laser Periodontal Procedures

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.

LANAP™ Post-Operative Instructions

  • Anti-microbial rinses and antibiotic medications may be prescribed for you. Take any prescribed medications according to directions and continue taking until all meds are gone.
  • Reduce physical activity for several hours following surgery.
  • Periodontal laser procedures usually result in little or no discomfort following surgery.
  • For the first 24 hour period immediately following surgery, take two (2) Advil or Motrin (Ibuprofen) every 4-6 hours even if you do not have any pain.
  • For the first 24 hour period immediately following surgery, stay on a liquid diet only. For the following 3-7 days after surgery, a soft diet is recommended. Try to eat soft but nutritious foods such as eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, malts, ice cream, etc. Stay away from spicy and “chippy” foods. It is also important to maintain good fluid intake during this period.
  • Carefully avoid chewing food in the areas of the mouth where the laser has been used for at least one week following surgery. One of the most important results of laser surgery is the blood clots that form following surgery. It is extremely important not to dislodge the tiny clots that form in and around the gums.
  • Do not be alarmed with any color changes or appearance of tissues following laser therapy.  Tissues can be gray, yellow, red, blue, purple, “stringy” and reflect normal response to laser treatments.
  • It is OK to spit, rinse, and wash your mouth today.  Rinse as directed with Peridex or Periogard morning and night.  In between, it is OK to rinse gently every three (3) hours with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8oz. glass of warm water).  Do not brush or floss your teeth until instructed to do so (see Treatment and Home Care sequence sheet).
  • Try to keep your mouth as clean as possible in order to help the healing process.  Brush, floss, and follow other home care measures in all the areas of your mouth except for the surgery area.
  • Do not apply excessive tongue or cheek pressure to the surgery area.

Do not be alarmed if one of the following occurs:

  • Light bleeding
  • Slight swelling
  • Some soreness, tenderness, or tooth sensitivity
  • Medicinal taste, from Peridex or Periogard

Please call the office at Northbrook Office Phone Number847-498-5630 if you are experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • Prolonged or severe pain
  • Prolonged or excessive bleeding
  • Considerably elevated or persistent temperature

Do not be alarmed that beginning within two weeks after therapy and extending as long as one year or more, the teeth may become sore, tender, or sensitive as the bone and ligaments around the teeth regenerate and become more firm.  This is a sign of healing, but may also indicate the presence of a bite imbalance that may need to be adjusted.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us! Northbrook Office Phone Number847-498-5630

Call today to schedule an appointment today.

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