SAN FRANCISCO, CA

LEO ARELLANO DDS

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

  Laser Periodontal Therapy™ using LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

Dr. Leo Arellano is one of first dentists in the San Francisco Bay Area to be fully trained and licensed to perform Laser Periodontal Therapy™ using LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), an FDA cleared and patented laser procedure that greatly reduces the pain and recovery time associated with traditional gum surgery used for treating gum disease.

Have you been told that you have gum disease? Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that destroys the gums and supporting bone surrounding your teeth. Three out of four adults 35 years and older may be affected, and according to the ADA (American Dental Association), more than 60% of the adult population has periodontal disease. Bleeding gums, tooth movement, loose teeth, bad breath, or pain associated with brushing, are all symptoms of periodontal disease. There is mounting evidence regarding the direct link between periodontal disease and a variety of other, possibly life-threatening diseases. Periodontal disease has been linked to heart attacks, strokes, miscarriages, and low birth weight.

The new standard of care for periodontal disease is Laser Periodontal Therapy™. If you have been told that you need gum surgery or you have periodontal disease, this new technology replaces cutting of the gum tissue with a scalpel and does not require stitches. This means an easy recovery with minimal bleeding, which preserves gum tissue, reduces root exposure and sensitivity, and is reasonably priced as compared to traditional gum surgery.

NEW TECHNOLOGY – NEW COMFORT

What is Laser Periodontal Therapy™?

Laser Periodontal Therapy™ is a laser based technique for the treatment of periodontal disease using the Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc., PerioLase^Ò Laser. Fear of periodontal treatment vanishes when patients find out no scalpel or sutures will be used. Patient friendly laser treatment gets patients to agree to the treatment they need and continue with the follow-up care that is prescribed.

Our office is one of the first in the area to offer Laser Periodontal Therapy™ for the treatment of gingivitis and/or periodontitis. Following are commonly asked questions about this technology.

How does it work?

Tartar, associated with inflamed and bleeding gums, is removed form the root surface of the tooth using an ultrasonic scaler and small instruments.

Then, a small amount of light energy from a laser is directed through a tiny fiber, which is gently placed between the gum and tooth. This light energy removes a tiny amount of diseased tissue and aids in reducing the bacteria associated with the disease. After the area is thoroughly cleaned, the body can heal the area naturally.

Does it hurt?

Although the procedure itself can be virtually painless, we may anesthetize the area for the patient’s comfort. In this way we can precisely direct the laser for treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is typically minimal and of short duration.

How long does it take?

Initial treatment is focused on scaling and the use of small instruments to remove the tartar. Then, the laser portion of the treatment is performed and normally only takes a few minutes. Depending on the severity of the patient’s periodontal disease, treatment may be accomplished in one office visit or in multiple visits. The estimated treatment time is reviewed with patients when we discuss their treatment plan.

Does this treatment cost more than traditional gum surgery?

Typically we use the same billing codes as traditional gum surgery and the laser treatment is generally no more expensive than traditional surgery. There are other factors which may affect the cost, such as the severity of the periodontal disease, and how many teeth are involved. Many insurance plans pay only for a portion of this treatment. Patients should discuss their payment options with the dental office personnel as we offer financing for this treatment.