When you have gum disease, your smile may not look its best. You may have swollen or bleeding gums. With advanced gum disease, you may have pale, receding gums. Patients may also experience discomfort or pain. Gum disease affects more than your oral health. It can also cause problems such as diabetes, dementia, and premature birth. Talk to your dentist about getting a LANAP treatment to remedy your gum disease.
Getting Ready for LANAP Treatment
Your dentist may notice the signs of gum disease during one of your routine dental exams. Many patients get gum disease by delaying their cleanings and exams. If you notice the signs of gum disease between appointments, schedule a visit to get diagnosed. Depending on the stage of gum disease you have, your doctor may prescribe a variety of periodontal treatment approaches. If you already have severe problems with your gums, you may start the process of LANAP surgery.
Your dentist may have a consultation with you to discuss details about the procedure. You may need to take the day off of work or school since the procedure can take an hour or two. You may also want to go home and apply ice to reduce swelling. You may, however, feel comfortable returning to work after the procedure. You can purchase ice packs, pain medication, and soft foods to get ready for your recovery time.
Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Gum Therapy?
Your dentist must decide if laser gum treatment can work for you. If you have concerns or fears about traditional gum surgery, you may feel more comfortable with laser surgery. Instead of incisions, surgical tools, and stitches, the dentist places a small fiber under the gums. The dentist then uses this fiber to direct the laser towards bacteria.
LANAP is one of the gum treatment approaches to decrease fear in dental patients. Patients with other health issues, such as diabetes, may also prefer to avoid surgical incisions.. Diabetic patients often have trouble healing from wounds. A dentist in Houston can help you with a diagnosis and treatment plan.
What is LANAP and who is it for?
Your dentist may recommend LANAP treatment if you present with the advanced stages of gum disease. You may notice swollen or bleeding gums. With advanced gum disease, you may have receding gums and loose teeth.
Healing After Laser for Gum Disease
Most patients can resume normal activity the same day or within 24 hours after laser periodontal therapy. It can take several weeks for full healing to take place, as your gums must reattach to your teeth. Without the bacteria and diseased tissue, your gums can remain healthy. You cannot brush your teeth for 7- 10 days after LANAP gum disease treatment. You must use a prescribed rinse or a salt water rinse to keep your mouth clean during this time. You may also need to restrict hard foods for up to two months. Foods like chips that can get between your teeth and under your gums can cause problems. Use a soft, manual toothbrush for at least two months, as well. An electric toothbrush may damage your gums during the healing process.
What happens after LANAP treatment?
Since LANAP is not an invasive surgery, you can usually return to normal activities the same day. It can take several weeks for your gums to reattach to your teeth. During your recovery, you may have some swelling and discoloration. Your dentist should give detailed instructions for hygiene and diet during the first 6- 8 weeks. The dentist removes all bacteria and diseased tissue during your treatment, restoring your oral health.
Laser Gum Surgery Cost
Without insurance, laser gum surgery cost can range from $2,000 to $8,000. If you have dental insurance, call to find out how much coverage you have for various gum surgery procedures. If you do not have dental insurance, look for a dental clinic with a self-payment discount or payment plans. If you must pay out of pocket, consider using a credit card or taking out a loan.
Finding a Dentist for Laser Gum Surgery Near Me
If you have a full-service dental office, you may have access to a periodontist. Your dentist may also have a certification to perform the procedure. You can also call your insurance company to find periodontists in your area. You can look on dental clinic websites or call to find out if they offer LANAP laser treatment.
What kind of dentist performs LANAP?
If you have severe gum disease, you may see a specialist called a periodontist. Many dental clinics have a full-range of specialists in the same building to make treatment more convenient. Dentists attend special training to get certified to perform LANAP.
Can LANAP help receding gums?
Dentists remove bacteria and diseased tissue during the LANAP procedure. If you have receding gums due to severe gum disease, you may need a different treatment after the LANAP procedure to restore your gums. Dentists can perform gum grafts since the gums do not regrow on their own.
Conclusion
Your smile looks different when you suffer from gum disease. You may bleed when you brush your teeth and have consistent inflammation. Your gums may also appear pale and begin receding. You can begin your journey back to health by getting a LANAP procedure to remove the bacteria and diseased tissue that continue to duplicate. Make an appointment with the nearest emergency dentist to find out more about gum disease recovery with LANAP.
