LANAP Laser
Gum Surgery
in Lakewood, CO
Gum disease doesn’t always require traditional surgery. At Colorado Advanced Dentistry, we use LANAP® — a minimally invasive laser treatment — to gently remove infection, preserve healthy tissue, and support your body’s natural healing. It’s a comfortable, effective option for treating moderate to advanced gum disease without the need for scalpels or sutures.
What Is the LANAP
Dental Procedure?
LANAP® stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It’s an advanced treatment that targets and removes bacteria beneath the gumline without cutting or stitching the gums. Instead of traditional surgery, a specialized laser is used to gently disinfect and seal deep pockets caused by gum disease. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal routines quickly.
LANAP is especially helpful for patients with moderate to advanced periodontal disease — even in cases where gum surgery has been recommended.
Benefits of LANAP Treatment
Halt the Progression
of Gum Disease
LANAP removes bacteria and infected tissue that contribute to gum disease, helping stop further damage and supporting healing of the surrounding bone and gums.
Targeted Tissue Removal
LANAP allows dentists to remove the least amount of tissue possible while treating gum disease. This means that future procedures like bone and/or skin grafts require less material and can sometimes be avoided altogether.
Minimally Invasive Care
LANAP requires no scalpels or stitches, which means less pain, swelling, and bleeding compared to traditional surgery — with quicker recovery times.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Early stage, often reversible with deep cleanings and improved home care. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Periodontitis
Bone and tissue damage begins. Deeper pockets form between teeth and gums. LANAP may be recommended.
Advanced Periodontitis
Teeth may become loose. LANAP can help preserve existing structures and avoid extractions when possible.
FAQs
Have questions about LANAP treatment? Find answers here.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It’s caused by bacteria that build up under the gumline, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and eventually tooth and bone loss if left untreated. Regular cleanings and good home care help prevent it — but advanced cases may require deeper treatment, like LANAP.
How does LANAP laser gum surgery work?
LANAP uses a soft-tissue laser to remove infected tissue and bacteria without cutting or sutures. It targets only diseased areas while preserving healthy gum tissue and promoting natural healing. The laser also stimulates regeneration of bone and connective tissue that support the teeth.
What are the benefits of LANAP?
LANAP is minimally invasive, reduces discomfort, and typically has a much faster recovery compared to traditional gum surgery. It can help save teeth that might otherwise be lost and is especially helpful for patients who want to avoid cutting, sutures, or a lengthy healing process.
Who is a good candidate for LANAP?
Patients with moderate to advanced gum disease often make great candidates for LANAP — especially if they’re looking for a less invasive alternative to conventional surgery. Dr. Whatcott will assess your gum health, bone support, and overall treatment goals to create a customized plan.
How many LANAP treatments will I need?
Most patients complete full-mouth LANAP treatment in one or two sessions. After that, you’ll enter a 12-month healing protocol supported by regular maintenance visits. At the one-year mark, we’ll take a close look at how your gums have responded — and in many cases, that appointment becomes a chance to celebrate just how much progress has been made. If any additional care is needed, we’ll make a plan that focuses only on the areas that need attention.
Is LANAP a permanent fix for gum disease?
LANAP can stop the progression of gum disease and promote regeneration, but like any treatment, long-term success depends on consistent follow-up and maintenance. After your initial LANAP procedure, we’ll guide you through a 12-month healing protocol with regular cleanings. At the one-year mark, we reassess your results — and often see major improvements. While some patients may need touch-up treatment in isolated areas every few years, full-mouth retreatment is rarely necessary if good habits are in place.