LANAP® vs. Traditional Gum Surgery: What San Luis Obispo Patients Need to Know

Healthy gums are the foundation of healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. If you’re suffering from gum disease, you might be worried about invasive surgery, long recovery times, or the risk of losing your natural teeth. At Michael Colleran, DDS, Dr. Michael Colleran offers LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), a modern, minimally invasive laser treatment designed to support saving your gums and your smile, without the discomfort and downtime of traditional surgery.

“Healthy gums are a major contributor to healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. LANAP gives our patients a gentle, effective way to fight gum disease and protect what matters most,” explains Dr. Colleran

What Is LANAP and How Does It Work?

Definition of LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

LANAP is an advanced laser treatment that targets gum disease precisely. Unlike traditional gum surgery, which involves cutting and suturing, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser designed to remove infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This approach encourages natural healing and regeneration, helping your gums reattach firmly to your teeth.

How the Laser Targets Gum Disease

The laser’s precision allows it to focus on diseased areas without harming healthy gum tissue. It sterilizes the pockets between your teeth and gums where bacteria thrive, reducing infection and promoting tissue regeneration. LANAP is also minimally invasive, meaning you may experience less discomfort and swelling compared to traditional surgery.

“LANAP offers a patient-friendly alternative that can reduce pain and recovery time, making it easier for our San Luis Obispo patients to get back to their lives quickly,” adds Dr. Colleran.

Understanding Traditional Gum Surgery

Flap Surgery and Scaling Procedures

Traditional gum surgery, often called flap surgery, requires cutting and lifting the gums to access the roots of your teeth for deep cleaning. This procedure usually involves sutures and can be quite invasive.

Recovery Time, Pain, and Sutures

Recovering from flap surgery can take several weeks and may include swelling, sensitivity, and soreness. Many patients experience discomfort and require time off work or daily activities.

Key Differences Between LANAP and Traditional Surgery

• Minimally Invasive vs. Surgical Cutting: LANAP uses a laser that eliminates diseased tissue without cutting healthy gums, whereas traditional surgery involves incisions and stitches.
• Faster Healing and Less Discomfort: Because LANAP is less traumatic for mouth tissues, patients may heal faster, with significantly less pain and swelling.
• Preservation of Healthy Gum Tissue: LANAP preserves healthy tissue, encouraging natural gum reattachment and regeneration.
• Reduced Risk of Gum Recession: By avoiding large cuts, LANAP lowers the chance of gum recession, protecting your teeth and smile aesthetics.
• Less Time Off Work or Normal Activities: Patients often resume their normal routines sooner with LANAP compared to traditional surgery.

Why San Luis Obispo Patients Are Choosing LANAP

• The Appeal of Laser Precision: The precision of LANAP technology allows Dr. Colleran to treat gum disease effectively, but more comfortably than with traditional gum surgery.
• Local Access to a Recognized LANAP Expert – Dr. Colleran: San Luis Obispo residents benefit from expert care in their community, with a provider who is passionate about advanced, compassionate periodontal treatment.

Is LANAP Right for You?

Signs You May Need Gum Disease Treatment

LANAP or gum surgery may not be right for every patient, but If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s likely time for a consultation:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Receding gums exposing tooth roots
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Deep pockets between teeth and gums
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Pain while chewing
• Pus or infection around teeth and gums

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and create a higher risk for other health problems, like heart disease or diabetes. LANAP offers a safe way to treat and reverse gum disease without invasive surgery.

Consultation and Diagnosis Process

Dr. Colleran will perform a thorough exam with digital X-rays and gum measurements to assess your condition and recommend the best treatment plan, whether LANAP or another approach fits your needs.

Advanced Laser Gum Surgery Services at Michael Colleran, DDS

Beyond treating gum disease, our laser technology can also help with:

• Gummy Smile Correction: Reshaping your gum line for a balanced, attractive smile
• Crown Lengthening: Exposing more tooth surface to aid in restorations like crowns or fillings
• Cosmetic Gum Reshaping: Removing uneven or excess gum tissue to improve smile aesthetics
• Periodontal Pocket Cleaning: Using laser therapy to clean deep gum pockets and prevent infection

Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable during these procedures, and the laser sterilizes the treatment area to reduce infection risks.

Book Your LANAP Consultation in San Luis Obispo Today

Don’t let gum disease or cosmetic concerns affect your confidence or health. Experience the benefits of LANAP and advanced laser gum surgery with Dr. Colleran, where patient comfort, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional care come together.

Call us or visit Michael Colleran, DDS, to schedule your LANAP consultation today and start your journey to healthier gums and a more beautiful smile.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.