A Modern, Minimally Invasive Approach to Treating Gum Disease
At our Woodland Hills periodontal office, we offer advanced laser therapies like LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and LAR (Laser-Assisted Regeneration). These techniques provide a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery, using laser energy to remove infection, preserve healthy tissue, and support the body’s natural healing process—all without scalpels or stitches.
What Is LANAP® and LAR?
LANAP® and LAR both utilize the PerioLase® MVP-7™, a specialized dental laser that targets and destroys harmful bacteria while leaving healthy tissue intact. The procedure stimulates the body’s natural ability to regenerate bone and connective tissue, helping gums reattach to the teeth.
- LANAP® focuses on treating moderate to severe periodontitis by disinfecting periodontal pockets and encouraging reattachment of gum tissue.
- LAR is the broader category encompassing regenerative laser procedures designed to rebuild bone and tissue in damaged areas.
Both approaches allow us to treat gum disease without incisions, sutures, or lengthy downtime—making them ideal options for many patients, especially those with medical complexities.
Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy
Laser therapy offers numerous advantages over traditional gum surgery:
- Minimally invasive: No cutting or sutures—meaning less discomfort and faster recovery.
- Preserves your smile: Minimal gum recession helps maintain your natural appearance.
- Faster healing: Most patients return to their routine the same day.
- Less pain and sensitivity: Patients rarely need prescription pain medication after treatment.
- FDA-cleared regeneration: LANAP is the only laser protocol cleared by the FDA for True Periodontal Regeneration, including new bone growth.
- Tooth-saving: Many teeth that were once considered hopeless can now be saved.
- Ideal for complex cases: Safe for patients on medications like blood thinners.
LANAP/LAR vs. Traditional Gum Surgery
Traditional periodontal surgery typically requires cutting the gums to access infected areas, often resulting in gum recession, sutures, and longer healing times. Laser treatment eliminates many of these drawbacks.
With LANAP and LAR, the laser precisely targets the diseased tissue and bacteria while leaving healthy structures untouched. This means:
- Less trauma to the tissue
- Shorter recovery time
- Reduced need for medications
- No stitches in most cases
Is Laser Therapy Right for You?
You may be a candidate for LANAP or LAR if you:
- Have bleeding gums, gum pockets, or bone loss due to periodontitis
- Have been told you need gum surgery but want a less invasive alternative
- Want to save teeth that seem beyond repair
- Have medical conditions that make traditional surgery riskier
We are fully certified to offer the LANAP protocol using the PerioLase® MVP-7™, ensuring that you receive the highest level of care with the most advanced, research-backed technology available.
Why Choose Our Office?
Dr. Sakhai is a gum specialist (periodontist) with advanced training in treating both natural teeth and dental implants. He uses the most up-to-date technology to give you the best chance at saving your teeth and avoiding more invasive procedures.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been putting off treatment due to fear of pain or surgery, laser periodontal therapy could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and find out if LANAP or LAR is the right option for you.
Still have questions?