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

1. Assessment and Pocket Measurement
   The dentist measures the depth of periodontal pockets to determine the severity of infection.

2. 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.

3. Tartar Removal
   Ultrasonic instruments break up and remove calculus deposits from root surfaces.

4. Laser Sealing
   The laser is used again to create a stable blood clot that seals the pocket, allowing the gums to reattach naturally.

5. 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.