Nearly half of adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease, according to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gum disease is a progressive inflammatory condition associated with bacterial infection, often beginning silently before causing noticeable damage.
In the past, treating advanced gum disease often required invasive surgery involving scalpels, cutting, and sutures. Today, dental technology has advanced, and at Alani Dental we offer LANAP — a minimally invasive, FDA-cleared laser treatment designed to treat periodontal disease while preserving healthy gum tissue.
LANAP uses the PerioLase MVP-7 Nd laser — a specialized device designed to target diseased tissue and bacteria within periodontal pockets while preserving surrounding healthy gum tissue and supporting the body's natural regenerative healing process.
Plaque buildup irritates the gum tissue, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. Fully reversible with professional care.
Bacteria spread below the gum line, destroying supporting bone and tissue. Pockets deepen and teeth may loosen.
FDA-cleared laser treatment targets infection precisely, removes diseased tissue, and supports natural regeneration without scalpels or sutures.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research notes that periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Early intervention with advanced treatments like LANAP can help protect your teeth and overall health.
Advanced LANAP laser periodontal care at Alani Dental — Jacksonville & Fleming Island, FL
The LANAP protocol is a structured, FDA-cleared treatment process. Depending on the severity of periodontal disease, treatment may be completed over one or more appointments.
The dentist uses a specialized periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth. These measurements determine the extent of the disease and provide a baseline for monitoring healing after treatment.
Diagnostic StepThe thin fiber of the PerioLase MVP-7 laser is inserted into the periodontal pocket. The laser targets diseased tissue and bacteria within the pocket while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, beginning to prepare the area for further treatment.
🔆 Laser ActiveSpecialized ultrasonic instruments are used to remove tartar and calculus deposits from the root surfaces of the teeth. Cleaning these surfaces eliminates bacterial deposits and creates a cleaner environment for the gums to properly heal and reattach.
Root Surface CleaningThe laser is used again to further treat the periodontal pocket and support the formation of a stable fibrin blood clot within the treated area. This clot acts as a natural protective barrier, initiating the body's regenerative healing response.
🔆 Laser ActiveThe dentist gently positions the gum tissue against the cleaned root surface. A natural fibrin clot stabilizes the tissue and protects the treated area during the initial stages of healing. Personalized aftercare instructions are provided to support recovery.
Natural Healing BeginsThe dentist evaluates your bite to identify areas of excessive pressure on teeth affected by periodontal disease. If necessary, minor adjustments are made to reduce excessive forces and support proper healing and long-term stability of the treated teeth.
Final Optimization
Understanding the difference between LANAP and traditional flap surgery — and what the treatment's regenerative potential means for your long-term gum health.
By reducing diseased tissue and bacterial infection, LANAP helps create an environment that supports healing and healthy tissue regeneration around the treated teeth.
As healing occurs, the treated gum and periodontal tissues may reattach to the tooth structure, reducing pocket depths and improving overall stability.
Some clinical studies have reported evidence of new attachment and bone regeneration following LANAP treatment. The degree of regeneration varies from patient to patient and cannot be guaranteed.
Clear, honest answers to the most common questions patients ask about LANAP laser periodontal treatment at Alani Dental in Jacksonville and Fleming Island.
LANAP treatment is typically performed using local anesthesia to help keep patients comfortable during the procedure. Many patients report less postoperative discomfort compared with traditional periodontal surgery, although individual experiences can vary. Your dentist will discuss pain management and recovery expectations based on your specific treatment needs before beginning.
The number of treatment sessions depends on the extent and severity of periodontal disease. Many patients receive treatment in multiple appointments, often treating different quadrants of the mouth separately. Your dentist will recommend a personalized treatment schedule based on your individual periodontal condition and overall oral health status.
Dental insurance coverage for LANAP can vary depending on your insurance provider and policy. Coverage may also depend on how the treatment is billed and the specific periodontal procedures included in your care. Our team can help you review your benefits and understand your available treatment options to make the most of your coverage.
Periodontal disease can cause bone and tissue loss that may lead to loose teeth. By treating infection and helping control periodontal disease, LANAP may help preserve affected teeth in appropriate cases. However, the ability to save a loose tooth depends on the extent of existing damage and the patient's individual response to treatment. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary.
LANAP may be an option for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease. Patients with deep periodontal pockets, bleeding gums, bone loss, or other signs of advanced gum disease may be evaluated to determine whether this treatment is appropriate. The best way to find out whether LANAP is right for you is to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation at Alani Dental.
Do not ignore the signs of gum disease. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can play an important role in protecting your teeth, gums, and long-term oral health. For patients who qualify, LANAP laser treatment offers a minimally invasive approach without traditional scalpels or sutures.
