Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy

The LANAP® protocol: Offering a cutting-edge, laser-based treatment

Gum disease often flies under the radar!

Gum disease often flies under the radar, yet it can have a significant impact on your daily life. Many patients with gum disease experience a loss of confidence and worry about the possibility of losing their teeth. But there’s good news—our office offers a cutting-edge, laser assisted periodontal therapy: the LANAP® protocol.

This advanced treatment uses the PerioLase® MVP-7™, a specialized dental laser. A tiny fiber, about the width of three human hairs, is gently inserted between your gum and teeth to target and eliminate harmful bacteria deep within the gum pockets—without harming healthy tissue.

Thanks to its minimally invasive approach, patients often notice immediate improvements, such as reduced bleeding when brushing and fresher breath. And the best part? There’s little to no downtime! After your LANAP® treatment, you can drive, return to work, and carry on with your day feeling confident and refreshed. Curious about how this innovative procedure can benefit you? Let’s talk!

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What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease starts when a sticky film called plaque builds up on your teeth. When plaque hardens due to minerals in your saliva, it becomes tartar (or calculus). The bacteria in plaque and tartar can irritate and damage your gums. Your body responds by sending white blood cells to fight the infection, which causes inflammation and bleeding when brushing or flossing. This early stage is called gingivitis.

If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause damage to the gums, ligaments, and bone supporting your teeth. This advanced stage is known as periodontitis, which can happen without any noticeable symptoms.

Why Treat Gum Disease if I Feel Fine?

Untreated periodontitis can progress to advanced tissue and bone destruction, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. Even if you don’t feel any discomfort, gum disease can impact your overall health.

It’s linked to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, respiratory problems, certain cancers, stroke, osteoporosis, erectile dysfunction, HPV, and pregnancy complications. People with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease or a fatal heart attack. Treating gum disease protects more than just your teeth—it helps safeguard your whole body.

Symptoms of Gum Disease:

Does Gum Disease Treatment Hurt?

Treatment is usually painless. We may numb the area to ensure your comfort. Utilizing precise techniques, like lasers, for effective gum care. Any discomfort after is typically mild and short-lived.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease:

Certain factors increase the risk of gum disease, including:

Taking care of your gums is an important part of your overall health, so don’t wait—schedule a visit today. There are treatment options available!

What is the LANAP® Protocol?

The LANAP® protocol is a modern, laser-based treatment for gum disease that doesn’t involve cutting or stitches. Patients often experience less pain and discomfort during and after the procedure compared to traditional gum surgery. This gentle approach helps you achieve healthier gums comfortably, without fear. Plus, it’s less invasive and helps maintain your natural smile.

Approved by the FDA in 2004, the LANAP® protocol uses a special laser, the PerioLase® MVP-7. This laser targets harmful bacteria causing gum disease while protecting healthy tissue. Unlike traditional surgery, it significantly reduces the risk of gum recession and tooth sensitivity.

Why Consider Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LANAP®) Treatment?

More than 50% of American adults have gum disease, a serious infection below the gum line. Left untreated, gum disease can contribute to major health issues like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even complications during pregnancy. Despite this, most people don’t get the care they need.

Traditional treatments often involve cutting the gums or even removing teeth. The LANAP^® protocol offers a better alternative by using advanced laser technology to safely remove bacteria and promote healing. Patients typically enjoy faster recovery times and more predictable results. The LANAP® protocol offers a breakthrough approach to treating gum disease with precision, comfort, and faster healing compared to traditional gum surgery. Here’s why patients are choosing LANAP®:

Preserves Your Smile – With no cutting of the gums, there’s less risk of gum recession, helping you maintain a natural, beautiful smile.
Reduces Inflammation & Bleeding – The PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser targets harmful bacteria while leaving healthy tissue intact, promoting healthier gums.
Saves Natural Teeth – Even teeth considered "hopeless" with traditional treatment can often be saved. Keeping your natural teeth is linked to better overall health and a longer lifespan.
Safe for Patients with Health Conditions – LANAP® is safe for patients with conditions like diabetes, HIV, hemophilia, or those on medications like Plavix or aspirin.

Faster Healing – This minimally invasive procedure helps your body recover and heal quickly, getting you back to normal in no time.
Less Discomfort – Patients often report feeling little to no pain during and after the procedure.
No Cutting, No Stitches, No Fear – The LANAP® protocol uses laser light to eliminate bacteria without the need for scalpels or sutures, making it a more comfortable experience.
Minimal Downtime – Most patients return to their normal routine immediately after treatment..

What to Expect with Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy Treatment

Procedure: LANAP® is completed in two 2-hour visits, treating one side of your mouth per session, usually within a week.
Recovery: Expect mild soreness for a few days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. You’ll need to follow a soft diet and avoid brushing or flossing for 7–10 days.
Follow-up Care: Your teeth may shift as your gums heal, requiring bite adjustments and possibly a stabilization splint. Professional cleanings every three months for the first year are essential to maintain results.

Is LANAP® Right for You?

Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LANAP®) is ideal for patients with moderate to severe gum disease or those who want to avoid traditional gum surgery. It’s also perfect for patients on blood thinners since no medication adjustments are needed.

Can LANAP® Help with Failing Implants?

Yes! Using the LAPIP™ protocol, we can often stabilize loose or failing implants by targeting bacteria around the implant while preserving healthy tissue. Take control of your gum health and overall well-being with Laser Assisted Periodontal Therapy (LANAP^®)— schedule your consultation today!

I have been going to Dental Care of Vashon for many years. Always received very conscientious and thorough care. Definitely highly recommend this practice to anyone.

The staff at Dental Care of Vashon are wonderful! I have a huge fear of the dentist, and they are so patient with me. They are extremely thorough and have taken wonderful care of me. I highly recommend it!

Everyone at Dental Care of Vashon is kind, understanding, and professional.
I really appreciated their compassion.

I am so happy to find Dr. Mehr and her friendly staff. Clean and tidy office. Best comprehensive exam that I have had in years. Easy to get an appointment. I highly recommend this practice.

Kind folks who explained all of what was going to happen.
I have some dental anxiety and they were calm and caring.

I was very happy with the care I received. The entire staff from receptionist to dental assistant to dentist to bookkeeper were professional, kind, patient and upbeat. Looking forward to having the dental work I need done with this stellar team. I highly recommend Dental Care of Vashon.

Great staff and dental expertise! I love my new smile! Received full dental implants (right on the island!) and I couldn’t be happier.