What is LAPIP?
Dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement solution which provide patients with the function and appearance of a natural tooth. Unfortunately, it is possible for the tissue surrounding a dental implant to become inflamed. When this occurs, the post can slowly loosen and compromise the stability of the implant. Advanced laser technology is used with the LAPIP protocol which works to eliminate the infection around the implant. LAPIP stands for Laser Assisted Peri-Implantitis Protocol. The procedure also promotes regrowth of bone and soft tissue.
Peri-implantitis is a condition which occurs when there is a loss of bone around dental implants. Just like periodontitis, peri-implantitis often develops from poor oral hygiene practices. It can also be the result of excessive biting forces near the site of the dental implant. It is critical for patients to follow up with a dental professional for a diagnosis and promptly treat the condition in order to preserve the dental implant and prevent further damage.
With the LAPIP protocol, the dental professional uses a specific wavelength on the PerioLase MVP-7 laser for the treatment of peri-implantitis. A small laser can effectively target and remove infected tissue in addition to vaporizing bacteria which collects deep within the pockets surrounding the dental implant. It is also able to avoid any impact to the healthy tissue and regenerate new growth. The procedure is highly effective in stopping the disease which exists around the dental implant. In some cases, it is even able to promote the regeneration or growth of new bone. The procedure is actually quite gentle and able to target problem areas. Patients often experience minimal pain or discomfort compared to the traditional surgery required to treat peri-implantitis. Dentists who are qualified to perform LAPIP must undergo extensive training and receive certification.
Dental implant revision surgery is very complicated and costs $3,000 or more. The cost of LAPIP will vary based on factors such as the number of appointments required, geographical location, and the number of dental implants which require treatment. Insurance typically does not cover the cost of LAPIP, however, the cost of this procedure is far less than the replacement of a failed implant.
Implant Health
When there is infection around a dental implant, it can result in the loss of tissue and make the implant less stable. LAPIP is able to remove infection and regenerate tissue, ensuring that the implant has an incredibly secure foundation. It also ensures patients can maintain good oral health.
Minimal Discomfort
When compared to traditional treatment methods used for peri-implantitis which rely on scalpels, LAPIP results in minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Advanced lasers are able to effectively restore the implant without the use of any painful incisions. This also expedites the recovery timeline.
Efficient Treatment
In most cases, LAPIP requires patients to make at least one, two-hour visit for treatment. Patients typically recover from the procedure within 24 hours. With traditional treatments used for peri-implantitis, diseased tissue is removed over four, hour-long sessions. Patients are also required to make numerous follow-up visits to the office. Bone grafting may also be required for treatment.
LAPIP is usually completed under local anesthesia. An overview of the LAPIP procedure is summarized below.
1. The PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser is used to vaporize any bacteria, diseased tissue, or any other debris which exists inside the periodontal pocket.
2. Contaminants are removed from the surface of the implant with an ultrasonic scaler.
3. Bone tissue is gently modified as needed.
4. The laser is then reinserted to eliminate any remaining debris. This also encourages the formation of a blood clot around the implant.
During the healing process, stem cells from the bone naturally promote the regeneration of tissue. This helps to encourage the reattachment of tissue to the implant post, restoring the stability of the implant.