by Are you dealing with gum disease and wondering about the best treatment options? Modern dentistry has made incredible progress with laser treatments, offering two main choices: LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage.
If these terms sound confusing, don’t worry! We’re here to break down these treatments in simple, easy-to-understand language.
Think of your gums like a garden – sometimes they need different types of care depending on the problem. LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage are like two different gardening tools, each designed for specific situations.
Today, we’ll explore what is the difference between laser assisted curettage and lanap, helping you understand which treatment might be best for your dental health.
Both treatments use special lasers to treat gum disease, but they work differently and serve different purposes.
What is The Difference Between Laser Assisted Curratage And Lanap?
By the end of this article, you’ll understand these treatments as clearly as you understand the difference between a toothbrush and dental floss – each important, but used for different reasons!
What is LANAP?
LANAP, which stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is like having a smart gardener for your gums.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Advanced Technology: Uses a special laser called PerioLase MVP-7
- Precise Treatment: The laser can tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy tissue
- FDA Approved: Officially recognized as safe and effective
- Deep Treatment: Works on both gums and underlying bone
Key Features of LANAP:
- Treats moderate to severe gum disease
- Helps grow new tissue and bone
- Works like a “reset button” for your gums
- Usually requires fewer visits than traditional surgery
| LANAP Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| PerioLase MVP-7 | A special laser that targets diseased tissue |
| Wavelength Technology | Distinguishes between healthy and diseased tissue |
| Regenerative Process | Stimulates new bone and tissue growth |
| Treatment Protocol | A systematic approach to gum disease treatment |
What is Laser Assisted Curettage?
Laser Assisted Curettage is like giving your gums a deep clean with advanced tools. Let’s break it down:
- Focus Areas:
- Cleaning infected gum pockets
- Removing harmful bacteria
- Reducing inflammation
- Preventing further infection
Main Characteristics:
- Best for mild to moderate gum disease
- More straightforward than LANAP
- Focuses on cleaning rather than regeneration
- Quick and effective procedure
The Key Goals of LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
Understanding the goals helps explain why these treatments are different:
LANAP Goals:
- Rebuild damaged gum tissue
- Regenerate lost bone
- Create new gum attachment
- Heal advanced periodontal disease
Laser Assisted Curettage Goals:
- Clean infected areas
- Reduce inflammation
- Stop disease progression
- Maintain gum health
How Does Each Procedure Work?
Let’s look at how these treatments help your gums:
LANAP Procedure Steps:
- Measurement: Dentist measures gum pocket depths
- First Laser Pass: Removes diseased tissue and bacteria
- Cleaning: Removes tartar with special instruments
- Second Laser Pass: Creates blood clots and seals the area
- Healing: Gums heal and reattach to teeth
Laser Assisted Curettage Steps:
- Assessment: Dentist examines gum pockets
- Laser Application: Removes infected tissue
- Cleaning: Cleans gum pockets
- Finishing: Laser seals the area
- Recovery: Gums heal naturally
Benefits of LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
Both treatments offer significant advantages over traditional gum surgery:
Shared Benefits:
- Less pain than traditional surgery
- Faster healing time
- Minimal bleeding during procedure
- No cutting or stitches needed
- Quick recovery period
| Benefit | LANAP | Laser Assisted Curettage |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Level | Very Low | Low |
| Recovery Time | 24-48 hours | 24 hours |
| Bleeding | Minimal | Very Minimal |
| Procedure Time | 2-3 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Number of Visits | Usually 2 | Usually 1 |
What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage in Terms of Healing?
The healing process differs significantly between these treatments:
LANAP Healing:
- Creates new bone and tissue
- Rebuilds gum attachment
- Long-term healing benefits
- Comprehensive tissue regeneration
Laser Assisted Curettage Healing:
- Cleans and disinfects
- Reduces inflammation
- Quick initial healing
- Maintenance focused results
Which Treatment is Right for You?
Choosing between treatments depends on several factors:
Consider LANAP if you have:
- Severe gum disease
- Bone loss around teeth
- Deep gum pockets
- Need for tissue regeneration
Consider Laser Assisted Curettage if you have:
- Mild to moderate gum disease
- Shallow gum pockets
- Early stage periodontal disease
- Need for maintenance treatment
Cost Differences: What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage in Terms of Price?
Understanding the cost helps in making an informed decision:
LANAP Costs:
- Usually $4,000 to $6,000 per arch
- Often requires two treatment sessions
- May be partially covered by insurance
- Higher initial investment
Laser Assisted Curettage Costs:
- Typically $500 to $1,500 per quadrant
- Usually completed in one session
- More likely to be covered by insurance
- The more affordable initial cost
Pros and Cons of Each Treatment
Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages:
Pros of LANAP:
- Regenerates lost tissue and bone
- Long-lasting results
- Minimal discomfort
- Effective for severe cases
- No cutting or stitches needed
Cons of LANAP:
- Higher cost
- Longer procedure time
- May need multiple sessions
- Not all dentists offer it
- Might be unnecessary for mild cases
Pros of Laser Assisted Curettage:
- More affordable
- Shorter procedure time
- Quick recovery
- Widely available
- Effective for maintenance
Cons of Laser Assisted Curettage:
- No tissue regeneration
- May need repeat treatments
- Less effective for severe cases
- Limited long-term benefits
- Doesn’t address bone loss
Also Check:
Final Thoughts on What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
Both LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage represent significant advances in dental care, each serving different needs in the treatment of gum disease.
LANAP stands out as the more comprehensive solution, ideal for severe cases requiring tissue regeneration, while Laser Assisted Curettage offers an excellent option for maintaining gum health and treating mild to moderate cases.
Remember, the best choice depends on:
- Your specific gum condition
- The severity of your periodontal disease
- Your budget and insurance coverage
- Your long-term dental health goals
Always consult with a qualified dental professional who can examine your specific case and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.
Both procedures offer modern, minimally invasive approaches to treating gum disease, and your dentist can help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs.
