Laser treatments in dentistry have brought significant advancements in treating gum disease. Today, a few popular laser-based options exist, including LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and Laser Assisted curettage. These treatments offer patients non-surgical ways to address periodontal disease, but each approach is unique. So, what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage? In this post, we’ll explore each method, its benefits, and the key differences to help you understand which option might suit your dental needs.
What is LANAP?
To start understanding what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage, it helps to know what LANAP entails. LANAP stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It’s a specific laser therapy using the PerioLase MVP-7 laser, which targets and removes diseased tissue without damaging healthy tissue. LANAP is FDA-approved, and it’s often used for advanced gum disease.
LANAP aims to stimulate new tissue attachment and bone regeneration, making it an excellent option for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease. LANAP is considered a regenerative treatment because it encourages healing and regrowth of tissues.
What is Laser Assisted Curettage?
Another critical part of understanding what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage is knowing what Laser Assisted curettage involves. Laser Assisted curettage uses a laser to clean the gum pockets around teeth affected by gum disease. While similar to LANAP, it is a more straightforward procedure primarily aimed at removing infected tissue and bacteria rather than regenerating bone or tissue.
Laser Assisted curettage focuses on decontaminating the gums, reducing inflammation, and helping prevent further infection. This procedure is generally used for mild to moderate cases of gum disease where tissue regeneration isn’t as crucial.
The Key Goals of LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
A critical aspect of what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage is their intended outcomes. LANAP focuses on healing and regrowing tissue, while Laser Assisted curettage focuses on reducing infection and removing diseased tissue.
- LANAP: The main goal is stimulating new tissue attachment and possibly bone growth. It’s ideal for people with advanced gum disease, as it helps rebuild the damaged tissue around the teeth.
- Laser Assisted Curettage: The goal is to clean the infected areas and reduce inflammation, stopping the disease from progressing.
How Each Procedure Works
The next step in understanding what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage is looking at the procedures themselves. While both use lasers, they have unique methods.
- LANAP Procedure: The dentist uses a specialised laser to remove infected tissue without damaging healthy tissue. After removing the bacteria and debris, the laser seals the area, helping prevent infection and encouraging new tissue growth.
- Laser Assisted Curettage Procedure: In this procedure, a laser targets and removes infected tissue. The laser’s heat helps disinfect the gum pockets and stop bleeding. However, it doesn’t aim to stimulate tissue or bone regeneration like LANAP does.
Benefits of LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
Both LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage have several benefits
- Minimally Invasive: Both procedures are non-surgical, making them less invasive than traditional gum surgery. Less discomfort and a quicker recovery are the outcomes.
- Reduced Bleeding and Discomfort: The laser minimises bleeding during both procedures, making the process more comfortable.
- Quick Healing: LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage offer faster healing than traditional methods. LANAP, in particular, promotes tissue regeneration, helping patients recover with healthier gums.
What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage in Terms of Healing?
One central point in what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage is the healing process and expected outcomes. LANAP, by promoting tissue growth, aims to restore the structure of the gums and bones. It gives a long-term solution for patients with more advanced gum disease.
On the other hand, Laser Assisted curettage is more of a maintenance procedure. It is effective at stopping the progression of gum disease but may not restore lost tissue or bone.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
The difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage, which is suitable for yuyoudepends on the severity of your gum disease and your treatment goals.
- Choose LANAP if you need tissue regeneration and have more advanced periodontal disease.
- Choose Laser Assisted Curettage if you have mild to moderate gum disease and want to clean infected areas without needing tissue regrowth.
Cost Differences: What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage in Terms of Price?
LANAP is generally more expensive than Laser Assisted curettage because of its regenerative properties and the specialised equipment required. However, LANAP’s potential for tissue and bone regrowth may make it worth the investment for patients with severe gum disease. Laser Assisted curettage is more affordable and may be suitable for patients who need routine maintenance for mild gum issues.
Pros and Cons of Each Treatment
To fully understand what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage, it helps to weigh their pros and cons.
Pros of LANAP
- Regenerates tissue and may promote bone growth.
- Ideal for advanced gum disease.
- Long-lasting results.
Cons of LANAP
- Higher cost.
- Not necessary for mild cases.
Pros of Laser Assisted Curettage
- Affordable.
- Suitable for mild to moderate gum disease.
- Effective for decontamination and infection control.
Cons of Laser Assisted Curettage
- Doesn’t promote tissue regeneration.
- In extreme circumstances, it might not be effective.
Final Thoughts on What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser Assisted Curettage
In summary, what is the difference between LANAP and Laser Assisted curettage? LANAP is a regenerative treatment designed for severe cases, helping promote new tissue and bone growth. Laser Assisted curettage, on the other hand, is a cleaning and maintenance treatment aimed at mild to moderate cases of gum disease without the need for tissue regeneration.
Both options offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your gums’ special needs and your dentist’s recommendation. Consult a dental professional to determine which procedure best suits your treatment goals and gum health.