LANAP

Gum disease affects millions of people across the United States, often silently damaging oral health until symptoms become severe. For patients in Atlanta, GA, suffering from periodontitis or advanced gum disease, innovative solutions are now available that go beyond traditional surgical methods. At Atlanta Periodontal Group, Dr. Marya Barnes, DDS, offers the cutting-edge LANAP procedure (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), a minimally invasive, highly effective treatment for gum disease.

LANAP is revolutionizing the way periodontal disease is treated. Unlike conventional surgery that requires scalpels and sutures, LANAP uses laser technology to selectively remove diseased tissue, eradicate bacteria, and stimulate natural regeneration of gum and bone. This approach offers less pain, faster healing, and long-lasting results for patients seeking healthier gums and stronger teeth.

Understanding Gum Disease and Its Impact

Before exploring LANAP, it’s essential to understand why gum disease is such a serious condition. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. It usually develops when plaque and tartar build up along the gumline, harboring harmful bacteria that trigger inflammation.

• Gingivitis is the earliest stage, characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
• Periodontitis occurs when the infection progresses, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth.

If left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss and has also been linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory illnesses. This makes timely, effective treatment essential—not only for oral health but for overall well-being.

Traditional treatment methods, such as flap surgery, scaling and root planing, or osseous surgery, can be effective but are often invasive, require lengthy recovery periods, and may cause gum recession. Patients today are increasingly seeking gentler, more precise alternatives—and LANAP offers just that.

What Is LANAP?

LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an FDA-approved laser protocol designed to treat moderate to severe gum disease. This advanced technique uses a PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser, which is uniquely calibrated to target and eliminate infected gum tissue and harmful bacteria without harming healthy tissue.

LANAP doesn’t just remove infection—it encourages the body to heal itself by stimulating the regrowth of gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and even supporting bone structures. This regenerative capacity sets LANAP apart from traditional periodontal treatments that often involve cutting away infected tissue rather than promoting natural healing.

At Atlanta Periodontal Group, Dr. Marya Barnes is highly trained in this advanced protocol, offering patients in Atlanta, GA, a safer, more comfortable, and highly effective solution for gum disease.

Key Benefits of LANAP

Patients often ask why they should choose LANAP over traditional gum surgery. The advantages are numerous, and they directly translate into a more comfortable and successful treatment experience:

Minimally Invasive Approach

LANAP uses a precision laser rather than scalpels. There are no incisions or stitches, which means less trauma to the gums and surrounding tissues.

Selective Targeting

The PerioLase laser can distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue. This allows Dr. Barnes to precisely remove infection while preserving healthy gum structure.

Faster Healing and Less Discomfort

Because there’s no cutting or suturing, patients experience significantly less pain, swelling, and bleeding. Healing times are shorter compared to conventional surgery.

Reduced Gum Recession

Traditional gum surgery often results in gum shrinkage or recession, exposing more of the tooth’s root. LANAP minimizes gum recession, preserving the natural look and health of your smile.

Bone Regeneration

LANAP has been shown to stimulate bone growth around teeth affected by periodontal disease, reducing the risk of tooth loss.

Lower Risk of Infection

Since the laser sterilizes the treatment area as it works, the risk of post-operative infection is greatly reduced.

Minimal Downtime

Most patients can return to work and daily activities within 24 hours of the procedure.

Long-Term Success

LANAP supports the reattachment of gum tissue to the teeth, reducing periodontal pocket depths and promoting long-term stability. Contact us to learn more.

The LANAP Procedure: Step by Step

At Atlanta Periodontal Group in Atlanta, GA, patients can expect a carefully structured treatment process designed to maximize comfort and results. Here’s what the procedure typically involves:

Comprehensive Evaluation

Dr. Barnes begins with a thorough periodontal exam, including digital imaging and probing measurements, to assess the extent of gum disease.

Laser Application

Using the PerioLase MVP-7 laser, she gently removes diseased gum tissue and eradicates bacteria from the periodontal pockets.

Scaling and Root Debridement

Once the diseased tissue is removed, the tooth roots are cleaned and smoothed, making it harder for bacteria to reattach.

Stimulation of Regeneration

The laser is then used again to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. It promotes new attachment of the gums to the tooth root and encourages bone regeneration.

Sealing the Gums

Unlike traditional surgery, which requires stitches, the LANAP procedure naturally seals the gums around the teeth using the body’s own clotting factors.

Bite Adjustment (if necessary)

If teeth have become loose due to gum disease, Dr. Barnes may make minor bite adjustments to reduce excessive pressure and support healing.

Recovery After LANAP

One of the biggest advantages of LANAP is the simplified recovery process. While traditional gum surgery often requires weeks of healing, LANAP patients typically experience only mild discomfort for a day or two.

• Pain and Swelling: Minimal compared to conventional surgery.
• Diet: Patients are encouraged to follow a soft-food diet for the first few days.
• Oral Hygiene: Gentle brushing and prescribed antimicrobial rinses help maintain cleanliness during healing.
• Downtime: Most individuals return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.

Follow-up visits with Dr. Barnes allow her to monitor healing and ensure the gums are properly reattaching and regenerating.

LANAP vs. Traditional Gum Surgery

When comparing LANAP to conventional periodontal surgery, the differences are striking:

Traditional Surgery:

Involves cutting, suturing, and removing gum tissue. While effective, it often causes gum recession, longer recovery times, and higher discomfort.

LANAP:

Minimally invasive, uses laser precision, preserves gum tissue, and promotes regeneration. Recovery is faster, with less pain and improved cosmetic results.

For patients in Atlanta, GA who want an effective, comfortable, and less invasive way to treat gum disease, LANAP is the superior choice.

Who Is a Candidate for LANAP?

LANAP may be recommended for patients with:

• Moderate to severe periodontitis
• Deep periodontal pockets that cannot be managed with scaling and root planing alone
• Loose teeth due to gum disease
• Patients who want to avoid the discomfort and long recovery associated with traditional gum surgery
• Individuals with health conditions (such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease) who require a minimally invasive treatment option

During your consultation, Dr. Barnes will determine if LANAP is the right treatment for your specific condition.

LANAP and Whole-Body Health

Treating gum disease with LANAP not only saves teeth and gums but also supports overall health. Research shows strong connections between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as:

• Heart Disease
• Diabetes
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Stroke
• Respiratory Illnesses

By effectively eliminating infection and inflammation through LANAP, patients may reduce risks associated with these serious health conditions. At Atlanta Periodontal Group, we view LANAP as a critical investment in both oral and general health.

Why Choose Atlanta Periodontal Group for LANAP?

Choosing the right provider for gum disease treatment is essential. At Atlanta Periodontal Group, patients benefit from:

• Expertise: Dr. Marya Barnes, DDS, is highly trained in performing the LANAP protocol with precision and compassion.
• Advanced Technology: Our practice is equipped with the latest dental lasers and diagnostic tools to ensure the best outcomes.
• Patient-Centered Care: We prioritize comfort, communication, and individualized treatment plans.
• Comprehensive Dentistry: In addition to periodontal care, we provide complete dental services to support long-term oral health.
• Commitment to Excellence: Our reputation in Atlanta, GA, is built on trust, innovation, and exceptional results.

Long-Term Care After LANAP

To ensure lasting success after LANAP treatment, ongoing maintenance is crucial:

• Regular Checkups: Continued periodontal evaluations with Dr. Barnes help monitor healing.
• Professional Cleanings: More frequent cleanings may be recommended to prevent reinfection.
• At-Home Care: Proper brushing, flossing, and use of antimicrobial rinses support gum health.
• Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and managing conditions like diabetes all contribute to periodontal stability.

Patients who follow these guidelines often experience long-term improvements and are able to maintain their natural teeth for many years.

Conclusion

LANAP in Atlanta, GA, at Atlanta Periodontal Group, represents a groundbreaking approach to treating gum disease. Under the expert care of Dr. Marya Barnes, DDS, patients can enjoy a minimally invasive, comfortable, and highly effective solution for periodontal problems.

By harnessing the power of advanced laser technology, LANAP not only removes infection but also promotes natural healing and regeneration, setting it apart from traditional methods. With faster recovery, less discomfort, and long-term health benefits, LANAP is transforming the way patients experience periodontal care.

If you are struggling with gum disease or have been told you need gum surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Barnes to see if LANAP is right for you. Take the first step toward restoring your gums, protecting your teeth, and safeguarding your overall health.

Your smile and your health deserve the best. At Atlanta Periodontal Group in Atlanta, GA, LANAP is helping patients achieve healthier, stronger smiles every day.

To schedule an appointment with us, visit Atlanta Periodontal Group at 1580 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30349, or call (770) 994-5678. To learn more about the various services we provide, please visit our website.