If you’ve been diagnosed with advanced gum disease, your periodontist may recommend surgery to remove infection and protect your teeth. Today, many patients ask whether they should choose LANAP® laser gum surgery or traditional gum surgery. While both treatments aim to stop periodontal disease, they differ significantly in technique, recovery, and patient experience.
At Foothill Dental Specialty, Dr. Soma Lari offers advanced periodontal treatments, including LANAP®, to help patients restore healthy gums while preserving as much natural tissue as possible.
Traditional periodontal surgery, also known as flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery, involves making small incisions in the gums to gently lift the tissue away from the teeth. This allows the periodontist to remove bacteria, tartar, and infected tissue from deep periodontal pockets.
Once the area is cleaned, the gums are repositioned and secured with sutures. In some cases, bone grafting or regenerative materials may also be used to rebuild lost bone.
Traditional surgery remains an effective treatment, especially for patients with severe periodontal damage or when additional regenerative procedures are needed.
LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an FDA-cleared laser treatment that uses a specialized dental laser to target infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue.
Instead of making large incisions with a scalpel, the laser removes bacteria and diseased tissue, stimulates healing, and encourages the body to regenerate healthy attachment around the teeth.
Because the procedure is minimally invasive, many patients experience a more comfortable recovery compared to conventional surgery.
Traditional surgery requires incisions and sutures.
LANAP® uses laser technology to access infected areas with little or no cutting, making the procedure less invasive.
Many patients report less swelling, bleeding, and post-operative discomfort after LANAP® compared to traditional gum surgery. Recovery times vary, but patients are often able to return to normal activities sooner.
One of LANAP®’s biggest advantages is its ability to selectively target infected tissue while leaving healthy gum tissue largely untouched. Traditional surgery may require removing more tissue to gain access to the affected areas.
The laser helps seal blood vessels as it works, often resulting in less bleeding during and after treatment.
Research has shown that LANAP® may help stimulate regeneration of bone and connective tissue around teeth affected by periodontal disease. Individual results vary, and not every patient is a candidate.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.
LANAP® is an excellent option for many patients seeking a minimally invasive approach with reduced discomfort and faster healing.
However, traditional periodontal surgery may still be the best choice in certain situations, particularly when extensive bone reconstruction, gum reshaping, or other surgical procedures are required.
A comprehensive periodontal examination, including digital X-rays and 3D imaging when appropriate, allows Dr. Soma Lari to determine which treatment will provide the most predictable long-term results.
Untreated periodontal disease can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, bad breath, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss. Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the chances of saving your natural teeth.
If you’ve been told you need gum surgery—or you’re looking for a second opinion—schedule a consultation with Dr. Soma Lari at Foothill Dental Specialty. We’ll evaluate your condition, explain all available treatment options, and recommend the approach that’s best for your oral health.
Many patients report less discomfort, swelling, and bleeding with LANAP® because it is a minimally invasive laser procedure. Individual experiences vary.
In many cases, LANAP® does not require traditional sutures, unlike conventional flap surgery.
Both treatments are effective for managing periodontal disease when used in appropriate cases. The best option depends on the severity of your condition and your clinical needs.
LANAP® may help preserve teeth affected by periodontal disease by eliminating infection and promoting healing. A periodontal evaluation is needed to determine whether a tooth can be saved.
Patients with moderate to advanced gum disease who want a minimally invasive treatment may be good candidates. Dr. Soma Lari will determine if LANAP® is appropriate after a comprehensive examination.
Many dental insurance plans provide benefits for periodontal treatment. Coverage varies by plan, so our team can help review your benefits and explain your treatment options.
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