Here’s a detailed article on the differences between LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and laser-assisted curettage. This comparison will clarify their purposes, techniques, benefits, and outcomes for those exploring laser treatments for gum disease and periodontal health.
What is the Difference Between LANAP and Laser-Assisted Curettage?
Modern dental treatments offer advanced options to treat gum disease effectively, with less discomfort and faster recovery times compared to traditional methods. Two popular laser-based procedures in periodontal treatment are LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and laser-assisted curettage. Although both utilize laser technology, they serve distinct purposes and offer unique benefits. Let’s explore the differences.
1. Overview of LANAP and Laser-Assisted Curettage
LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an FDA-cleared treatment specifically for periodontal disease. It’s a regenerative procedure that aims to eliminate diseased tissue while promoting the growth of healthy gum tissue and new bone around teeth.
Laser-Assisted Curettage, on the other hand, is a less specific term referring to the removal of the inflamed, diseased soft tissue within the gum pockets using a laser. Curettage itself is a general dental procedure to clean infected gum tissue, but when performed with a laser, it is known as laser-assisted curettage.
2. Goals of Each Procedure
- LANAP: The primary goal of LANAP is to regenerate lost periodontal structures, such as bone and gum tissue, rather than merely removing infected tissue. It focuses on building new attachment tissue around teeth, which helps secure the teeth better and prevent future tooth loss.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage: The primary goal of laser-assisted curettage is to remove diseased gum tissue within the periodontal pockets, helping reduce infection. This procedure focuses mainly on eliminating inflamed tissue and bacteria, rather than regeneration.
3. Technique and Procedure
LANAP Technique:
- LANAP involves using a specialized laser (often the PerioLase MVP-7) that targets and removes diseased tissue and bacteria without harming healthy gum tissue.
- After removing the diseased tissue, the laser also stimulates the gum tissue to reattach to the tooth’s surface and promotes the regrowth of bone tissue.
- LANAP is precise, often allowing the treatment of multiple pockets in one session, with minimal discomfort and bleeding.
Laser-Assisted Curettage Technique:
- In laser-assisted curettage, the laser is used to debride and disinfect the gum pockets.
- The procedure typically involves removing inflamed soft tissue within the pocket to reduce the depth of the periodontal pocket, allowing for easier cleaning and less bacterial buildup.
- This process is less complex than LANAP, focusing primarily on tissue removal rather than regeneration or tissue attachment.
4. Equipment and Technology
- LANAP: Requires a specialized laser, often the PerioLase MVP-7, which has FDA clearance for the regenerative aspect of periodontal treatment. This laser’s wavelength is specifically suited to target diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage: Can be performed with various types of dental lasers, not necessarily the same ones required for LANAP. The lasers used for curettage typically focus on removing inflamed tissue and killing bacteria.
5. Patient Eligibility
- LANAP: Recommended for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease, especially those who wish to avoid surgical procedures like flap surgery. LANAP may not be suitable for patients with minimal gum disease, as it is generally a more complex and specific treatment.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage: Suitable for a wider range of patients, particularly those with mild to moderate gum inflammation or periodontal disease. It can be used as a preventive measure in early stages of gum disease or as a complementary treatment to traditional scaling and root planing.
6. Healing and Recovery
- LANAP: Known for faster recovery times due to its minimally invasive nature. Since the laser only targets diseased tissue, patients experience less bleeding, swelling, and pain. LANAP also promotes tissue regeneration, which can lead to stronger attachment around teeth over time.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage: Recovery is usually quick but may vary depending on the extent of periodontal disease. The primary purpose is tissue removal rather than regeneration, so healing may involve some minor discomfort, with a gradual improvement in gum health as the infection resolves.
7. Advantages of Each Procedure
- LANAP:
- Promotes tissue and bone regeneration.
- Minimally invasive with less pain and bleeding.
- Improves periodontal attachment and stability.
- Can potentially reduce the need for traditional gum surgery.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage:
- Effective in reducing gum inflammation and infection.
- Minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
- Suitable for a broader range of gum disease severity.
- Can be used alongside traditional dental cleanings to improve gum health.
8. Limitations
- LANAP: While effective, LANAP is typically more expensive due to the specialized equipment and expertise required. It may not be covered by all insurance plans, as it’s relatively newer and more specific.
- Laser-Assisted Curettage: Does not promote tissue regeneration, so it may be less suitable for patients needing new tissue attachment. It’s best suited for cleaning and disinfecting gum pockets rather than rebuilding lost gum or bone structures.
9. Cost Considerations
LANAP is generally more costly than laser-assisted curettage because it requires specialized equipment and training. The price can vary based on the dental provider, region, and extent of treatment needed. Laser-assisted curettage is usually more affordable and may be partially covered when used alongside traditional cleaning treatments.
Conclusion: Choosing Between LANAP and Laser-Assisted Curettage
Both LANAP and laser-assisted curettage offer valuable options for treating gum disease. If your goal is to regenerate tissue and improve gum attachment, LANAP might be the better choice. However, if you need a simpler and quicker procedure to reduce inflammation and infection, laser-assisted curettage can be an effective solution.
It’s essential to consult a qualified dental professional who can assess your specific gum health needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Both procedures provide benefits for periodontal health, offering patients a chance to preserve their natural teeth and improve overall gum wellness.
