Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Evolution of Periodontal Surgery
- What is LANAP? (The FDA-Cleared Protocol)
- The Science of the Nd:YAG Laser
- The 7-Step LANAP Protocol: A Journey to Regeneration
- LANAP vs. Traditional Flap Surgery: A Clinical Comparison
- Who is a Candidate for Laser Periodontics?
- Bone Regeneration: Fact or Fiction?
- Post-Operative Care: What to Expect After LANAP
- Why Indira Dental Clinic is Vellore’s Laser Leader
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction: The Evolution of Periodontal Surgery
For over a century, the treatment for advanced gum disease (periodontitis) was synonymous with "Flap Surgery"—a procedure involving scalpels to cut the gums open, metal scrapers to clean the roots, and sutures to sew the tissue back together. While effective at reducing pocket depth, this traditional approach often resulted in significant post-operative pain, increased tooth sensitivity, and receding gums that changed the aesthetics of the smile.
At Indira Dental Clinic, we believe in a better way. Under the clinical leadership of Dr. Rockson Samuel, we offer LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure). This is not just a "laser cleaning"; it is a sophisticated, biological protocol designed to save teeth that were once considered terminal. This guide explains the technology, the procedure, and the life-changing benefits of laser periodontics.
What is LANAP? (The FDA-Cleared Protocol)
LANAP is the only laser periodontal protocol that is FDA-cleared and clinically proven to achieve Periodontal Regeneration—the regrowth of new bone, new cementum, and a new periodontal ligament.
Unlike traditional surgery that aims to "cut away" the disease, LANAP uses a specific wavelength of light to interact with the body's natural healing mechanisms. It is a "closed" procedure, meaning no scalpels are used and no healthy tissue is removed.
The Science of the Nd:YAG Laser
The success of LANAP lies in the PerioLase MVP-7, a specialized Nd:YAG laser. This laser is "selective":
- Color-Seeking Technology: The laser wavelength is absorbed by dark pigments (melanin and hemoglobin). It targets the black-pigmented bacteria (like P. gingivalis) and infected, dark-red tissue while passing harmlessly through healthy pink gum tissue.
- Thermal Control: The laser energy is delivered in tiny pulses, ensuring the tissue never overheats, which protects the underlying bone.
- Bio-Stimulation: The energy actually "wakes up" stem cells in the periodontal ligament, triggering the regeneration of lost support structures.
The 7-Step LANAP Protocol: A Journey to Regeneration
When you visit us in Vellore for LANAP, your treatment follows a precise biological pathway:
- Measurement: Dr. Rockson Samuel uses a periodontal probe to map the exact depth of your pockets.
- Pass 1 (Decontamination): The laser fiber is inserted into the pocket to kill bacteria and vaporize the diseased lining of the gum.
- Piezoelectric Debridement: We use specialized ultrasonic tools to vibrate away the tartar and calculus from the root surfaces.
- Pass 2 (The Seal): The laser is used at a different setting to finish disinfecting the pocket and to form a "sterile blood clot."
- Compression: The gums are gently pressed against the tooth. This sterile clot acts as a biological "glue," sealing the pocket and preventing food and bacteria from entering.
- Bite Adjustment: Periodontally involved teeth are often stressed. We subtly adjust your bite to ensure that the healing tooth isn't being traumatized by chewing.
- Regeneration Phase: Over the next 6-12 months, your body works to grow new bone and re-attach the gums to the tooth.
LANAP vs. Traditional Flap Surgery: A Clinical Comparison
| Feature | LANAP (Laser) | Traditional Surgery (Scalpel) |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | No Scalpels | Scalpels used to "flap" gums |
| Sutures | No Stitches | Stitches required |
| Tissue Loss | Preserves all healthy tissue | Healthy tissue often cut away |
| Pain Level | Very Low (Minimal discomfort) | Moderate to High |
| Bleeding | Almost Zero (Clots immediately) | Significant bleeding |
| Sensitivity | Minimal | High (Due to root exposure) |
| Regeneration | Stimulates new bone growth | Primarily reduces pocket depth |
Who is a Candidate for Laser Periodontics?
LANAP is the ideal treatment for:
- Advanced Periodontitis Patients: Those with pocket depths of 5mm or more.
- Patients on Blood Thinners: Since there is no cutting and the laser cauterizes, patients on aspirin or Warfarin can often be treated without stopping their medication.
- Diabetics: The sterile nature of the laser reduces the risk of post-op infection, which is critical for diabetic patients.
- Dental Phobics: Patients who are terrified of scalpels and sutures find LANAP to be a much gentler experience.
- Smokers: While smoking slows healing, LANAP still offers a better success rate than traditional surgery for smokers.
Bone Regeneration: Fact or Fiction?
In the past, dentists believed that once bone was lost to gum disease, it was gone forever. LANAP has proven this wrong. High-definition 3D CBCT scans at our Gandhi Nagar clinic have shown significant bone "density increase" and growth in pockets that were previously thought to be hopeless. This allows us to keep your natural teeth for decades longer than traditional methods.
Post-Operative Care: What to Expect After LANAP
The beauty of laser surgery is the ease of recovery:
- First 24 Hours: Stick to a liquid diet (smoothies, soups). Avoid straws as the suction can disturb the healing clot.
- Days 3-7: Transition to soft "mushy" foods (dal, yogurt, mashed potatoes).
- Activity: Most patients return to work the very next day.
- Hygiene: Do not brush the treated area for the first week—gently rinse with a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash instead. We will provide a detailed hygiene guide.
Why Indira Dental Clinic is Vellore’s Laser Leader
Dr. Rockson Samuel's clinical mastery in laser dentistry is well-known across Tamil Nadu:
- Specialist Equipment: We utilize the genuine PerioLase technology required for the true LANAP protocol.
- Biological Philosophy: We focus on the "Host Response"—treating the cause, not just the symptoms.
- Painless Environment: We combine laser precision with painless sedation options for a stress-free experience.
- Exceptional Results: We have saved thousands of teeth that were scheduled for extraction elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does LANAP hurt?
The procedure is perform under local anesthesia, so you won't feel anything. Post-operatively, most patients report a "tight" or "achy" feeling that is easily managed with over-the-counter paracetamol. It is significantly less painful than traditional surgery.
2. Is LANAP more expensive than traditional surgery?
The clinical investment for LANAP is similar to traditional surgery. However, when you factor in the "indirect costs"—less time off work, no need for expensive narcotics, and most importantly, the ability to save a natural tooth instead of paying for a dental implant—LANAP is much more cost-effective.
3. How many sessions are required?
Typically, we treat half the mouth in one session (about 2 hours) and the other half in a second session. This allows you to chew comfortably on one side during the initial healing phase.
4. Can LANAP treat "Gummy Smiles"?
Yes! We also use laser technology for Gummy Smile Correction and Clinical Crown Lengthening with the same painless benefits.
Conclusion
You don't have to choose between a healthy mouth and a comfortable experience. Laser Periodontics (LANAP) at Indira Dental Clinic offers a scientific, regenerative, and painless way to conquer advanced gum disease and save your natural smile.
Stop fearing the blade and embrace the light. Experience the most advanced gum care available in Vellore.
Book Your Laser Consultation: 7010650063
Location: 3rd Floor, 54, Katpadi Main Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632006
Related Services
- Digital Smile Design (DSD)
- Painless Scaling & Root Planing
- Bone Grafting for Implants
- Full Mouth Rehabilitation
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): LANAP Approval for Periodontal Regeneration
- Journal of Periodontology: Clinical Study on the Effectiveness of LANAP vs. SRP
- American Academy of Periodontology: Laser Therapy in Periodontics Position Paper