If you are in need of periodontal surgery, the choice between traditional considered rather archaic surgical methods and laser periodontal treatments are very important. To select the best option for you, it is of vital importance that you understand the key differences between traditional periodontal surgery and the LANAP® procedure.

During traditional surgery, the doctor uses a scalpel to make a cut in the gum tissue for enhanced visibility and to gain access to the periodontal pocket. This may result in an aesthetic alteration of your gum line. Once the area has been further cleaned, other treatments such as bone or tissue grafting may be utilized to help regenerate some of the bone loss to achieve optimum periodontal health.

While some severe cases of periodontitis necessitate traditional surgery, LANAP® is generally a viable alternative for most patients. LANAP® does not require scalpel or sutures, making it minimally invasive with little pain or discomfort. Because LANAP® does not require the cutting of gums to decrease pocket depth, there is little to no gum line recession, nor aesthetic alteration of your smile. The laser is able to distinguish between diseased and healthy tissue, leaving healthy tissue unaffected; this makes the procedure exceptionally selective and safe. The laser removes diseased tissue and kills living bacteria without compromising healthy gum, tooth, and bone tissue.