LANAP: A revolutionary and smart approach to saving teeth from gum disease
If you’ve noticed bleeding when you brush or your gums feel swollen or tender, it could be a sign of gum disease. You’re not alone, this condition affects nearly half of adults at some stage in life.
The good news? Today’s technology offers a smarter, gentler way to treat it and even save teeth that might otherwise be lost. It’s called LANAP, and it’s changing the way patients experience gum disease treatment in Houston.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It starts small, with irritation or bleeding, and can progress silently until teeth start to loosen.
There are two main stages:
- Gingivitis – Gums become red, puffy, and bleed easily when brushing.
- Periodontitis – The infection spreads deeper, damaging the bone and tissue around your teeth.
Catching it early is key. With the right care, gum disease can be managed and your natural teeth preserved.
“Dr. Garcia is very knowledgeable, very patient, and very thorough. She alerted me to a gum condition my previous dentist overlooked.” — Dale W.
Early signs you shouldn’t ignore
You don’t have to wait for pain to know something’s wrong. These early signs often appear long before discomfort sets in:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Teeth starting to feel loose
- Sensitivity or discomfort when chewing
If you’ve noticed any of these, it’s time to schedule a check-up. The sooner gum disease is treated, the easier it is to reverse the damage.
What is LANAP and how does it work?
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, an advanced, FDA-approved treatment that uses laser technology to eliminate bacteria and promote natural healing.
Unlike traditional gum surgery, which requires cutting and stitches, LANAP is gentle and minimally invasive.
Here’s how it works:
- The dental laser precisely targets and removes infected gum tissue.
- Healthy tissue and bone are left untouched.
- The laser stimulates the body’s natural ability to regenerate gum and bone tissue.
- The treated area seals naturally, no stitches needed.
It’s a cleaner, faster, and far more comfortable way to restore your gum health.
LANAP vs traditional gum surgery
| Feature | LANAP | Traditional Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Virtually painless, no stitches | Discomfort and longer recovery |
| Healing Time | 24–48 hours | Weeks of recovery |
| Precision | Laser targets only infected tissue | Manual removal may affect healthy tissue |
| Bleeding/Swelling | Minimal | Moderate to significant |
| Results | Promotes regeneration of bone and tissue | Focuses on removal, not regrowth |
Benefits of LANAP
Why patients love LANAP treatment at Fabulous Dentistry:
- No cutting or sutures
- Little to no bleeding
- Faster recovery time
- Saves teeth that might otherwise be lost
- Encourages the gums to reattach naturally
- Long-term improvement in gum and bone health
“They suggested that I get a deep gum cleaning, fillings, and extraction done. Thank you so much for being patient and helping me with my issues.” — Christine J.
The LANAP experience at Fabulous Dentistry
We understand that gum treatment can sound intimidating, but with Dr. Fabiola Garcia’s gentle approach, it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s what to expect:
- Comprehensive Exam – We evaluate your gums and bone health with advanced imaging.
- Comfort-First Treatment – LANAP is performed gently under local anaesthetic or sedation if preferred.
- Laser Therapy – The laser removes bacteria and diseased tissue, leaving healthy areas untouched.
- Healing and Follow-Up – You’ll receive simple aftercare instructions and return for a check-up to ensure strong, lasting results.
Most patients are amazed by how easy and comfortable the process feels, and how quickly they return to normal activities.
Long-term gum health: how to maintain your results
Your gums are the foundation of a healthy, confident smile. After LANAP treatment, simple habits can help keep them strong:
- Brush and floss daily, using soft, gentle motions.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and D.
- Avoid smoking, which slows gum healing.
Healthy gums mean fewer infections, stronger teeth, and a smile that lasts a lifetime.
Take the first step
If your gums bleed easily or feel swollen, don’t ignore the signs. LANAP offers a gentle, effective way to heal and protect your smile, without the fear or downtime of traditional surgery.