LANAP Gum Surgery: A Minimally Invasive Breakthrough in Treating Gum Disease ( which is directly affecting heart disease ! )
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues in adults, yet many patients avoid treatment because they fear painful surgery or lengthy recovery times. Fortunately, modern dentistry now offers a gentler, highly effective alternative: LANAP® gum surgery. Short for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, LANAP uses advanced laser technology to treat periodontal disease without scalpels or sutures.
If you’re exploring treatment options for yourself or educating patients through your dental blog, here’s a clear, patient-friendly overview of what LANAP is, how it works, and why it’s becoming the preferred method for gum disease therapy.
What Is LANAP?
LANAP is an FDA-cleared periodontal procedure that uses the PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves cutting and stitching the gums, LANAP is minimally invasive and promotes natural regeneration of periodontal tissue and bone.
How LANAP Works: Step-by-Step
Assessment and Pocket Measurement
The dentist measures the depth of periodontal pockets to determine the severity of infection.Laser Removal of Infected Tissue
A specialized laser fiber—about the thickness of three human hairs—is inserted into the pocket. It selectively targets and removes diseased tissue and harmful bacteria.Tartar Removal
Ultrasonic instruments break up and remove calculus deposits from root surfaces.Laser Sealing
The laser is used again to create a stable blood clot that seals the pocket, allowing the gums to reattach naturally.Healing and Regeneration
Because the procedure preserves healthy tissue, the body is able to regenerate lost bone and connective tissue more efficiently.
Benefits of LANAP Gum Surgery
1. Minimally Invasive
No cutting, no stitches, and significantly reduced trauma to the gums. This alone makes LANAP appealing to patients who are anxious about surgery.
2. Faster Recovery Time
Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours. Swelling and discomfort are typically much lower compared to traditional surgery.
3. Promotes Regrowth of Gum and Bone
LANAP is the only FDA-cleared protocol proven to support regeneration of bone and periodontal ligament lost to gum disease.
4. Less Gum Recession
Because it targets only diseased tissue, LANAP preserves healthy gum structure and minimizes recession—an important cosmetic benefit.
5. Reduced Risk of Infection
Laser energy sterilizes the treated area, eliminating harmful bacteria more effectively than manual methods.
6. Ideal for Medically Compromised Patients
Patients with diabetes, heart disease, or those taking medications that slow healing often tolerate LANAP better than traditional surgery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for LANAP?
LANAP is suitable for most patients diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontal disease, especially those who:
Want a minimally invasive treatment
Have deep pockets around the teeth
Experience bleeding, inflammation, or gum recession
Have been told they may need traditional flap surgery
Prefer a quicker, more comfortable recovery
A periodontal evaluation is necessary to determine eligibility.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Recovery from LANAP is typically smooth and fast. Patients may experience mild soreness for a day or two, but discomfort is generally minimal. Dentists often recommend a soft-food diet for several days and emphasize careful oral hygiene practices to support healing.
Follow-up visits allow the dentist to monitor progress, measure pocket reduction, and confirm tissue regeneration.
Is LANAP Worth It?
For many patients, LANAP offers the best balance between effective periodontal treatment and comfort. Its ability to regenerate tissue, reduce recovery time, and minimize invasiveness makes it one of the most advanced therapies available for gum disease today.
Final Thoughts
LANAP gum surgery represents a major advancement in periodontal care. If you or your patients are looking for a less painful, highly effective treatment for gum disease—with real regenerative potential—LANAP is an option worth exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions about our dental services, appointments, and what to expect.
What types of dental services does Siesta Village Dentistry offer?
Siesta Village Dentistry provides a full range of dental care, including general family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, laser dentistry, implant dentistry, periodontal treatment such as LANAP, and emergency dental care.
How can I book an appointment or consultation?
You can schedule a dental appointment or consultation by calling (941) 505-1200 or using the online appointment request form on the Siesta Village Dentistry website.
What should I expect during my first visit?
New patient visits typically include a comprehensive dental exam, full series of X-rays, cleaning, fluoride treatment, and a personalized treatment plan. New patient specials are also available.
Is laser dentistry offered, and what are its benefits?
Yes. Laser dentistry uses gentle laser technology to treat gum issues and other oral health problems with minimal discomfort, faster healing, and reduced need for anesthesia compared with traditional tools.
What is LANAP and how does it help gum health?
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an FDA-recognized laser periodontal treatment that promotes gum regeneration and reattachment with minimal cutting or sutures, helping preserve natural teeth and improve periodontal health.
Does the practice accept dental insurance and financing?
Siesta Village Dentistry accepts dental insurance programs and partners with third-party financing for flexible monthly payment plans, which can be especially helpful for extensive procedures like implants or crowns.
Who provides care at Siesta Village Dentistry?
Dr. My-Huong Ta, DDS, leads the practice with over 30 years of experience in cosmetic, implant, and general dentistry, supported by a compassionate team focused on comfort and patient understanding.
Is the dental care experience comfortable and gentle?
Many patients report a comfortable and gentle experience, including modern amenities, advanced dental technology, and a team that prioritizes patient comfort.
Are emergency dental services available?
Yes. Siesta Village Dentistry offers emergency dental care, including for visitors or those on vacation in the Siesta Key/Sarasota area.
Where is Siesta Village Dentistry located, and what are your hours?
The practice is located at 5136 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 34242, which is Sarasota, FL. We are a proud Sarasota Dentist and Cosmetic Dentist serving our community for over 5 years. Typical office hours are Monday through Thursday, with Friday by appointment only.
Do you provide cosmetic dentistry services?
Yes. Cosmetic services include smile makeovers, whitening options (in-office or take-home), and other aesthetic dental enhancements tailored to patient goals.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
While individual recommendations vary, most patients benefit from semi-annual check-ups and cleanings to maintain oral health and prevent issues before they become serious.