Difference Between LAPIP & LANAP?
Gum disease is extremely common among adult patients in the US. When patients follow up with a dentist regarding treatment for gum disease, they may be referred to a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. There are various terms which may be used in the discussion of treatment which patients may not be familiar with. Two common terms used to discuss treating gum disease often include LANAP® And LAPIP™. LANAP stands for laser-assisted new attachment procedure and LAPIP stands for laser assisted peri-implantitis protocol. While these acronyms and treatment methods may sound confusing at first, they are actually quite simple to understand. The following article will review the differences and similarities between the two types of treatment.
Similarities between LANAP and LAPIP
One of the main similarities between LANAP and LAPIP is that both treatments use safe and powerful lasers in the treatment of gum disease. A dental laser is a minimally invasive method which can effectively destroy bad bacteria, remove damaged gum tissue, and ensure that healthy gum tissue is not harmed.
LANAP is commonly used for patients with periodontitis or advanced gum disease. During LANAP, a periodontist uses small lasers to remove infected tissue. The procedure eliminates the need for scalpels, scraping, cutting, and sutures. The treatment is highly effective in restoring the teeth and gums, without significant discomfort, invasive treatments, or a prolonged recovery.
Not all periodontists are trained and qualified to perform laser-based gum disease treatments. Dental professionals must receive specialized training and certification in order to perform LANAP and LAPIP.
Key Differences between LANAP and LAPIP
While LANAP and LAPIP both rely on the use of lasers for treatment, a key difference between the two is in the basic protocol or procedure.
LANAP is intended for use when patients have gum disease and require periodontal maintenance. The LANAP procedure allows the periodontist to promote restoration and healing in targeted areas which have been impacted by gum disease.
LAPIP is used specifically for patients with failing dental implants who have a condition called peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis occurs in the gums surrounding an implant. The gums are attacked by bacteria which causes gum disease. LAPIP eliminates bacteria and damaged tissue while helping to regenerate healthy gum tissue. Following treatment, the gums can reattach to the implant. This restores the implant and offers patients a strong and secure restoration.
Perhaps dental implants start feeling loose, or the gums which surround the implant are swollen. Some of the early signs of gum disease include bad breath and bleeding gums. Fortunately, LANAP or LAPIP can help eliminate the issue and restore the health of the teeth, implant, or gums.
Patients who are considering LANAP or LAPIP should follow up with a dental professional to discuss if they may be a good candidate for treatment. Following the laser treatment, the mouth can be fully restored. The average recovery from the treatments is about 24 hours.