LANAP LASER DENTISTRY
LANAP vs. Traditional Gum Surgery
Understanding Your Options
When you are diagnosed with periodontal disease that requires professional intervention beyond scaling and root planing, you have treatment choices. The most common alternatives are LANAP laser treatment and traditional gum surgery (also called osseous surgery or periodontal flap surgery).
Both approaches aim to eliminate bacteria, remove disease-causing toxins, and promote healing. However, they differ significantly in how they work, what recovery involves, and what outcomes you can expect.
When Traditional Surgery May Still Be Best
While LANAP offers tremendous advantages for most patients, there are situations where traditional surgery remains the best option. Severe cases with very extensive bone loss may benefit from a surgical approach with bone grafting. Patients with significant gum recession may need simultaneous tissue grafting. Rarely, complex periodontal cases may benefit from a combination of both traditional and laser techniques.
The key is working with a knowledgeable dental team who can assess your specific situation. Learn whether you are a candidate for LANAP.
Side-by-Side Comparison
See how LANAP laser treatment compares to traditional periodontal flap surgery across the factors that matter most to patients.
Pain Level
LANAP: Minimal; OTC pain relievers usually sufficient.
Traditional: Moderate to significant; often requires prescription pain medication.
Recovery Time
LANAP: 24-48 hours back to normal activities.
Traditional: 2-4 weeks before returning to normal. View LANAP recovery details.
Cutting & Sutures
LANAP: No scalpel; no sutures needed.
Traditional: Flap surgery requires incisions and suturing to close the wound.
Gum Recession
LANAP: Minimal risk; preserves healthy tissue.
Traditional: Commonly occurs as healing causes tissue shrinkage and root exposure.
Bone Regeneration
LANAP: Yes, proven histologically; FDA-cleared for regeneration.
Traditional: May require bone grafting; does not reliably regenerate on its own.
Tooth Sensitivity
LANAP: Minimal post-treatment sensitivity.
Traditional: Common due to gum recession and root exposure. Learn more about LANAP benefits.
What the Research Says
LANAP achieves clinical pocket depth reduction comparable to or better than traditional surgery in peer-reviewed studies.
LANAP has documented histological evidence of new bone and connective tissue attachment -- something traditional surgery alone cannot reliably achieve.
Long-term studies show stable results at 5+ years post-LANAP treatment, with bone gains maintained over time.
LANAP demonstrates significantly faster healing and return to function compared to traditional periodontal flap surgery.
LANAP preserves healthy gum tissue rather than removing it, leading to better esthetics and fewer complications long-term.
LANAP costs are generally comparable to traditional periodontal surgery, and most PPO insurance plans cover it similarly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LANAP as effective as traditional surgery?
Research shows LANAP achieves comparable pocket depth reduction and has the additional benefit of proven bone regeneration without the cutting and suturing of traditional surgery.
Why don't all dentists offer LANAP?
LANAP requires specialized training through the IALD and investment in the PerioLase MVP-7 laser. Not all dental practices have made this investment.
Can I switch from traditional to LANAP?
If you've been recommended for traditional gum surgery, you may be a candidate for LANAP instead. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation.
Is LANAP more expensive than traditional surgery?
LANAP costs are generally comparable to traditional periodontal surgery, and many insurance plans cover it similarly.
What if LANAP doesn't work for me?
In rare cases where LANAP doesn't achieve desired results, traditional surgical options remain available. Your dentist will monitor healing and recommend next steps.
