LANAP® Laser Gum Surgery:
The Complete Guide to FDA-Cleared Periodontal Treatment
LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) represents the most advanced approach to treating periodontal disease available today. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease and want to avoid traditional surgery with its cutting, stitches, and lengthy recovery, LANAP® laser gum treatment offers a proven, FDA-cleared alternative that preserves healthy tissue while eliminating infection.
At Laser Smile Solutions, we’ve helped thousands of patients across New York City, New Jersey, Long Island, and Westchester restore their gum health using this breakthrough laser protocol. Our periodontal specialists are among the region’s most experienced LANAP® providers, delivering results that not only save teeth but actually regenerate bone and gum tissue.
What Is LANAP® Laser Gum Surgery?
LANAP® stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure—the world’s first and only FDA-cleared laser protocol for treating periodontal disease. Unlike conventional periodontal surgery that requires cutting away gum tissue with scalpels and closing with sutures, LANAP® uses a precisely calibrated PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser to:
- Selectively remove diseased tissue while preserving healthy gums
- Eliminate bacteria deep within periodontal pockets
- Stimulate stem cells to regenerate lost bone and attachment
- Create a stable fibrin clot that seals the pocket naturally—no stitches required
This minimally invasive laser treatment has been clinically proven in peer-reviewed studies to regenerate periodontal tissue, reduce pocket depths, and save teeth that might otherwise require extraction.
The Science Behind LANAP®
The PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser operates at a specific wavelength (1064 nm) that targets diseased tissue and bacteria while leaving healthy gum tissue intact. The laser energy:
- Vaporizes diseased epithelium and bacteria without harming healthy tissue
- Stimulates biologic response at the cellular level
- Forms a natural seal through protein coagulation
- Triggers regeneration of periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone
Clinical studies published in the Journal of Periodontology and International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry have documented significant bone regeneration and true periodontal attachment following LANAP® treatment—outcomes rarely achieved with traditional surgery.
How Does LANAP® Work? The 6-Step Protocol
The procedure follows a precise, research-backed protocol designed to maximize healing and regeneration:
Step 1: Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation
- Full periodontal charting measuring pocket depths
- Digital X-rays to assess bone loss
- Comprehensive medical and dental history review
- Discussion of your treatment goals and concerns
Step 2: Local Anesthesia
We use gentle local anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients report feeling minimal to no discomfort during treatment.
Step 3: Laser Treatment – First Pass
A thin laser fiber (approximately the width of three human hairs) is inserted between your tooth and gum tissue. The laser:
- Removes diseased epithelial lining and bacteria
- Targets pigmented tissue (diseased areas absorb the laser energy)
- Leaves healthy pink tissue completely intact
- Works with precision impossible with conventional instruments
Step 4: Ultrasonic Scaling
Once diseased tissue is removed, ultrasonic scalers gently remove tartar (calculus) from root surfaces. This step is far more comfortable than traditional root planing because the laser has already removed inflamed tissue.
Step 5: Laser Treatment – Second Pass
The laser makes a second pass to:
- Further eliminate any remaining bacteria
- Create a stable fibrin clot
- Seal the periodontal pocket
- Stimulate stem cell response for regeneration
Step 6: Compression and Adjustment
Your gums are compressed against the clean tooth roots, and your bite is adjusted to reduce stress on the treated teeth. This promotes proper healing and allows new attachment to form.
LANAP® Benefits: Why Choose Laser Gum Surgery Over Traditional Methods?
| Feature | LANAP® Laser Treatment | Traditional Flap Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Scalpels/Cutting | None – completely scalpel-free | Requires surgical cutting of gum tissue |
| Sutures/Stitches | None – laser seals tissue naturally | Multiple sutures required |
| Healthy Tissue Preservation | 100% – laser targets only diseased tissue | Healthy tissue often removed |
| Bone Regeneration | Clinically proven to regenerate bone | Limited regenerative potential |
| Post-Op Pain | Minimal – most patients use only OTC pain relievers | Moderate to significant discomfort |
| Recovery Time | 24-48 hours to normal activities | 2-4 weeks with dietary restrictions |
| Gum Recession Risk | Minimal – tissue preserved | Significant – tissue removed |
| Bleeding During/After | Minimal to none | Significant bleeding common |
| Infection Risk | Very low – laser sterilizes as it treats | Higher – open surgical site |
| Root Sensitivity | Rare – roots remain covered | Common – roots exposed |
| FDA Clearance | Yes – specifically for periodontal regeneration | Yes – as surgical procedure |
| Time Off Work Needed | Usually none or 1 day | Often 3-5 days |
Key Advantages of LANAP® Laser Gum Treatment
1. Preserves Your Natural Gum Tissue
Traditional surgery removes gum tissue, often resulting in exposed roots, sensitivity, and an aged appearance. LANAP® removes only diseased tissue, maintaining your natural gum line and aesthetics.
2. Actually Regenerates Lost Bone
LANAP® is FDA-cleared for true periodontal regeneration. Histologic studies show new bone, cementum, and periodontal ligament formation—the gold standard of periodontal healing. Traditional surgery creates a “long junctional epithelium,” which is attachment but not regeneration.
3. Minimal Discomfort & Quick Recovery
Most LANAP® patients return to work the next day and resume normal eating within 24 hours. There’s no prolonged soft diet, no weeks of swelling, and no extensive post-operative restrictions.
4. Reduces Pocket Depths Effectively
Clinical studies demonstrate pocket depth reduction averaging 2-3mm, with many pockets resolving completely. This improvement is stable long-term when patients maintain good home care and regular periodontal maintenance.
5. Safer for Patients with Medical Conditions
For patients with diabetes, heart disease, bleeding disorders, or those on blood thinners, LANAP® offers a safer alternative. The laser coagulates as it cuts, minimizing bleeding risk, and the procedure creates less systemic inflammation than traditional surgery.
6. Preserves Tooth Stability
Teeth remain stable throughout LANAP® treatment. Traditional surgery can cause temporary looseness due to extensive tissue manipulation and bone removal.
7. One or Two Appointments for Full Mouth
Most patients complete their entire LANAP® treatment in one or two visits, compared to traditional surgery which often requires 2-4 separate appointments per quadrant.
Who Is a Candidate for LANAP® Treatment?
Ideal Candidates for LANAP® Laser Gum Surgery
LANAP® is appropriate for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease who want to:
- Avoid traditional cutting and suturing
- Preserve their natural teeth
- Experience minimal recovery downtime
- Achieve regeneration of lost periodontal tissue
You may be an ideal candidate if you have:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pockets deeper than 5mm
- Visible bone loss on X-rays
- Gum infections or abscesses
- Pain when chewing
- Moderate periodontitis (Stage 2-3)
- Severe periodontitis (Stage 3-4)
- Chronic periodontal disease
- Aggressive periodontitis
- Periodontal disease affecting dental implants (peri-implantitis)
Special Considerations
LANAP® May Be Especially Beneficial If You:
- Have anxiety about dental surgery
- Want to avoid the “long in the tooth” look from recession
- Have been told you need tooth extractions
- Take blood thinners or have bleeding disorders
- Have diabetes or autoimmune conditions
- Need to minimize time away from work
- Have sensitive teeth and want to avoid further sensitivity
- Previously had traditional gum surgery with poor results
When LANAP® May Not Be Recommended
While LANAP® is highly effective, it may not be suitable in cases of:
- Extremely advanced bone loss with no treatment potential
- Active uncontrolled medical conditions
- Inability to maintain adequate oral hygiene
- Unrealistic expectations about outcomes
During your consultation, our periodontists will thoroughly evaluate your specific situation and determine whether LANAP® is the right treatment for your needs.
What to Expect During Your LANAP® Procedure
Before Your Treatment
Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with one of our experienced periodontists for a comprehensive evaluation including:
- Detailed periodontal examination
- Digital X-rays (if not recently completed)
- Discussion of your medical history
- Review of treatment options
- Personalized treatment plan
- Cost estimate and insurance verification
Pre-Treatment Instructions:
- Continue your regular oral hygiene routine
- Take any prescribed pre-medication as directed
- Eat a normal meal before your appointment
- Arrange transportation if receiving sedation
- Wear comfortable clothing
During Your Appointment
Comfort Measures:
- Local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain
- Optional sedation available for anxious patients
- Comfortable treatment rooms with amenities
- Ability to take breaks if needed
What You’ll Experience:
- Minimal sensation during the procedure
- Slight vibration or warmth from the laser
- Sounds of ultrasonic instruments
- No cutting or bleeding sensations
- Treatment typically takes 1-2 hours per arch
Real-Time Communication: Our team maintains constant communication throughout your procedure, ensuring your comfort and addressing any concerns immediately.
Immediately After Treatment
What’s Normal:
- Minimal to no bleeding
- Little to no discomfort
- Teeth may feel slightly different
- Gums appear pink and healthy
- You can speak and function normally
What You Can Do Right Away:
- Return to most normal activities
- Drive yourself home (unless sedated)
- Eat soft foods (can progress quickly)
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
LANAP® Recovery & Aftercare: What to Know
The First 24-48 Hours
Dietary Guidelines:
- Start with soft, cool foods
- Avoid extremely hot foods or beverages
- No hard, crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods
- Stay well-hydrated
- Most patients resume near-normal diet within 24-48 hours
Oral Hygiene:
- Gently rinse with prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash
- Avoid brushing treated areas for the first day
- No flossing in treated areas initially
- Continue brushing non-treated teeth normally
Activity Restrictions:
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
- No smoking (ideally permanently—smoking severely compromises healing)
- Avoid alcohol for 48 hours
- Get adequate rest
The First Week
What to Expect:
- Minimal discomfort, easily managed with OTC medication
- Occasional slight bleeding when eating—this is normal
- Gradual reduction in any initial sensitivity
- Gums begin tightening around teeth
- Return to work and normal schedule immediately or within 1-2 days
Care Instructions:
- Resume gentle brushing of treated areas after 24 hours
- Continue antimicrobial rinses as prescribed
- Gradually expand diet as comfort permits
- Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments
- Avoid biting into hard foods with front teeth for 2 weeks
Weeks 2-4: Healing Phase
During this period:
- Gum tissue continues to heal and tighten
- Bone regeneration begins at cellular level
- Pockets continue to reduce in depth
- Any sensitivity diminishes
- You can resume normal diet completely
Follow-Up Appointments: We’ll monitor your healing progress with scheduled check-ups, typically at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-treatment.
Long-Term: 3+ Months
Periodontal Regeneration:
- Bone continues regenerating for up to 12 months
- Pocket depths continue improving
- Attachment levels stabilize
- Teeth become firmer
- Long-term success depends on excellent home care
Maintenance Requirements:
To maintain your LANAP® results long-term:
- Professional periodontal cleanings every 3-4 months
- Meticulous daily brushing and flossing
- Use of recommended oral hygiene aids (Waterpik, interdental brushes)
- Non-smoking commitment
- Management of systemic health factors (diabetes control, etc.)
Success Rates: Published studies show 80-90% of LANAP®-treated patients maintain stable results with proper maintenance. This compares favorably to traditional surgery and is significantly better than untreated periodontal disease progression.
LANAP® Cost & Insurance Coverage
Understanding LANAP® Treatment Investment
The cost of LANAP® laser gum surgery varies based on:
- Extent of periodontal disease (number of teeth affected)
- Whether treatment is needed on one or both arches
- Your specific insurance coverage and benefits
- Geographic location (costs vary between NYC, NJ, Long Island, Westchester)
Typical Cost Range:
Full-mouth LANAP® treatment generally ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of your case. This comprehensive fee typically includes:
- Initial consultation and diagnostics
- Complete LANAP® laser treatment
- All follow-up visits for the first year
- Post-operative care and instructions
Per-Arch Pricing: Many patients opt to treat one arch at a time, which typically costs $1,500-$4,000 per arch.
Insurance Coverage for LANAP®
Good News: Most dental insurance plans cover LANAP® at the same rate as traditional periodontal surgery. Common coverage levels include:
- PPO Plans: Often cover 50-80% of periodontal surgery after deductible
- HMO Plans: May require pre-authorization but typically provide coverage
- Medical Insurance: In some cases, medical insurance may provide partial coverage, especially if periodontal disease is linked to diabetes or heart disease
Important: LANAP® is assigned the same dental codes as traditional osseous surgery, so insurance companies reimburse it equivalently—you’re not penalized for choosing the more advanced laser treatment.
Maximizing Your Insurance Benefits
Our dedicated insurance coordinators will:
- Verify your specific coverage before treatment
- Submit pre-authorizations when required
- Provide detailed cost estimates in writing
- Help you understand your out-of-pocket expenses
- Process claims directly with your insurance company
Financing Options
We understand that even with insurance, there may be out-of-pocket costs. We offer:
- Flexible payment plans
- Third-party healthcare financing (CareCredit, LendingClub)
- Multiple payment methods accepted
- Treatment can often be split into phases to spread costs
Is LANAP® Worth the Investment?
Consider the Alternative Costs:
- Multiple traditional surgeries with longer recovery
- Potential tooth extractions requiring implants or bridges
- Ongoing treatment for worsening periodontal disease
- Lost work time and diminished quality of life
LANAP® Offers:
- One comprehensive treatment solving the problem
- Preservation of natural teeth (avoiding implant costs)
- Minimal time away from work
- Better long-term outcomes with proper maintenance
Pick the office that suits you best
Our LANAP® Locations: Serving the Greater New York Metro Area
Conveniently Located Throughout the Region
Laser Smile Solutions provides expert LANAP® treatment at four convenient locations:
Laser Smile Solutions
Long Island
Why Choose Laser Smile Solutions for LANAP®?
Unparalleled Experience:
- Thousands of successful LANAP® procedures performed
- Team trained directly by LANAP® protocol developers
- Recognized as regional leaders in laser periodontics
Cutting-Edge Technology:
- PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser systems at all locations
- Digital X-rays and advanced diagnostics
- Modern, comfortable treatment facilities
Patient-Centered Care:
- Comprehensive consultations with thorough education
- Transparent pricing and insurance coordination
- Emergency availability for urgent concerns
- Commitment to long-term patient relationships
Proven Results:
- High patient satisfaction ratings
- Documented case outcomes demonstrating regeneration
- Strong track record of saving teeth and restoring health
Frequently Asked Questions About LANAP®
Does LANAP® hurt?
No, LANAP® is not painful. Local anesthesia ensures you feel no discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, most patients experience minimal soreness—far less than traditional gum surgery—easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Many patients report taking no pain medication at all.
How long does LANAP® take?
Treatment time depends on how many areas need attention. Most patients complete their LANAP® treatment in one or two appointments of 1-2 hours each. Full-mouth treatment is typically finished within one week.
Can I eat normally after LANAP®?
You’ll start with soft foods immediately after treatment, but most patients can return to their regular diet within 24-48 hours. There’s no extended soft diet required as with traditional surgery.
Will my gums recede after LANAP®?
No, LANAP® preserves your gum tissue and natural gum line. Unlike traditional surgery where tissue is cut away (causing recession and the “long in the tooth” look), LANAP® only removes diseased tissue microscopically, maintaining your aesthetic appearance.
Does LANAP® really regenerate bone?
Yes. LANAP® is FDA-cleared specifically for periodontal regeneration. Multiple peer-reviewed studies using histologic analysis have documented new bone formation, new cementum, and new periodontal ligament attachment after LANAP® treatment—true regeneration.
How successful is LANAP® long-term?
Published research shows 80-90% of patients maintain stable improvements when they follow proper maintenance care. Success depends on excellent home hygiene, regular professional cleanings every 3-4 months, and managing risk factors like smoking and diabetes.
Is LANAP® covered by insurance?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover LANAP® at the same rate as traditional periodontal surgery (typically 50-80% after deductible). We’ll verify your coverage before treatment and help maximize your benefits.
Can LANAP® save teeth that are loose?
In many cases, yes. LANAP® can stabilize teeth by eliminating infection, regenerating bone, and creating new attachment. However, extremely compromised teeth with severe bone loss may still require extraction. Your periodontist will assess each tooth individually.
Am I too old for LANAP®?
Age alone is not a limiting factor. LANAP® is safely performed on patients from their 20s through their 90s. What matters is your overall health status and the condition of your teeth and gums.
How soon will I see results?
You’ll notice healthier-looking gums immediately. Pocket depth reduction becomes measurable within weeks. However, full bone regeneration continues for up to 12 months. Most patients feel significant improvement within the first month.
What if my gum disease comes back?
Periodontal disease is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management. With proper home care and regular professional maintenance, LANAP® results are very stable. If disease recurs in specific areas, localized re-treatment can be performed.
Can LANAP® treat peri-implantitis (gum disease around implants)?
Yes, LANAP® can effectively treat peri-implantitis—gum disease affecting dental implants. The laser safely removes infection around implants without damaging the implant surface, promoting healing and preservation of your implant investment.
Do I need antibiotics with LANAP®?
In most cases, no. The laser itself has a sterilizing effect, dramatically reducing bacterial load. However, patients with certain medical conditions (heart valve issues, joint replacements, compromised immune systems) may be prescribed antibiotics as a precaution.
Can I have LANAP® if I’m on blood thinners?
Yes. LANAP® is often the preferred treatment for patients on anticoagulant medications because the laser coagulates as it works, minimizing bleeding risk. Traditional surgery requires discontinuing blood thinners—a potentially dangerous requirement for many patients.
Will I need time off work?
Most patients return to work the next day or even the same day if treated in the morning. There’s no need for extended time off as recovery is minimal.
How is LANAP® different from regular dental cleaning?
Regular cleanings treat gingivitis (gum inflammation) and early-stage disease. LANAP® treats moderate to severe periodontitis where gums have detached from teeth, pockets have formed, and bone loss has occurred—conditions that cleaning alone cannot resolve.
Can’t I just get a deep cleaning instead?
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is effective for early to moderate gum disease without significant bone loss. However, if you have deeper pockets (5mm+) with bone loss, deep cleaning alone often cannot reach the bottom of pockets or stimulate regeneration. LANAP® addresses these more advanced cases.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Book Your LANAP® Consultation Today
Don’t let periodontal disease continue to damage your smile, your confidence, and your overall health. LANAP® laser gum surgery offers a proven path to restoration—without the fear, pain, and recovery time of traditional surgery.
Schedule Your LANAP® Consultation Today:
- No-obligation evaluation
- Personalized treatment plan
- Clear cost estimate with insurance verification
- All your questions answered by experienced specialists
Call or book online at any of our four convenient locations:
📍 Manhattan: (212) 843-4363
📍 New Jersey: (973) 221-5269
📍 Long Island: (516) 504-3430
📍 Westchester: (914) 337-7757
Or complete our online consultation request form and we’ll contact you within 24 hours.
Take the first step toward better oral health.