LANAP Laser Therapy

What is LANAP laser therapy?

LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is a laser treatment for gum disease (periodontal disease) that is moderate to severe. Traditional gum surgery usually involves cutting the gum tissue and stitching it closed. LANAP uses a PerioLase laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gum pockets while leaving healthy gum and bone in place.

The laser is used in a minimally invasive way, so there are no scalpel incisions and no sutures. At Harmony Dental Care in West Covina, we offer LANAP as an alternative to conventional periodontal surgery for patients who need deeper gum treatment.

Who does LANAP help?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It starts as gingivitis, which causes red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If it is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection moves below the gumline and forms pockets between the teeth and gums.

LANAP is designed for gum disease that has reached the moderate to severe stage. Common signs include persistent bad breath, gums that have pulled back from the teeth, and teeth that feel loose. Your dentist will examine your gums, measure the pockets around your teeth, and review X-rays to decide whether LANAP is a good fit for you.

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or want a second opinion, we want to see you soon. Our periodontal evaluation is the first step.

How LANAP works

Your evaluation

Before any laser treatment, your dentist will complete a periodontal assessment. This usually includes measuring the depth of the gum pockets, checking your bite, and reviewing digital X-rays and scans. These results help your dentist plan which areas need treatment.

The procedure

LANAP is performed under local anesthesia, so you will be numb during the procedure. It is completed in one or two visits, depending on how many areas need care. During treatment, the laser removes the diseased lining of the pocket and clears out bacteria. The laser also helps form a blood clot that supports new bone and tissue growth. Afterward, the gum tissue is gently pressed against the tooth, which helps it seal without stitches.

At our office, we offer local anesthetic, a numbing gel, warm blankets, and noise-canceling headphones to help you stay comfortable and relaxed during your visit.

What LANAP can and cannot do

LANAP is one part of a complete gum care plan. Our team combines LANAP with scaling, root planing, and ongoing maintenance when it is needed. Your dentist will explain what results to expect for your situation and what follow-up care will help keep your gums healthy over time. No treatment can guarantee the same result for every patient, so your dentist will talk through your options with you.

LANAP compared with traditional gum surgery

Traditional periodontal surgery often involves cutting the gums to reach the roots, then stitching the gums back in place. LANAP does not use a scalpel or sutures. Compared with traditional flap surgery, many patients find LANAP causes less pain, less swelling, and less bleeding. Because the healthy gum tissue is preserved, the gums are less likely to recede after treatment.

Your dentist can explain whether LANAP or a different approach is the better match for your gums.

Cost, insurance, and payment

The cost of LANAP depends on how many teeth need treatment. Your dentist will give you a clear estimate after your evaluation, before you decide on care.

Insurance coverage depends on your specific plan. Many dental plans cover periodontal treatment for gum disease, but the amount covered varies, so we recommend checking your benefits. Harmony Dental Care accepts:

• PPO and Indemnity plans
• Medi-Cal and Denti-Cal
• Smile California
• CalOptima (direct provider, no referral needed)
• Most major dental insurance plans

We also offer a free insurance eligibility check before your visit. Our team will review your benefits so you know what to expect.

If you do not have insurance, the $59 new patient special includes a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and a professional cleaning. It is available to new patients without insurance and can be a first step toward a full periodontal evaluation.

For care that is not fully covered, we offer flexible financing with monthly payment plans for elective and major procedures. Payment options include CareCredit, Sunbit, Alpheon, credit cards, and our in-house membership plan. Ask our team about the options that fit your budget during your visit.

Recovery and aftercare

Because LANAP does not involve cutting or stitches, many patients return to their normal activities soon after treatment. Recovery varies from person to person. Some patients have mild sensitivity or swelling for a short time.

Your dentist will explain what to expect after your procedure and how to care for your gums at home. Keeping up with your follow-up visits is important. Regular maintenance visits, often every three to four months, help keep gum disease under control and lower the chance it will return.

Why patients choose Harmony Dental Care

Our team is trained in the LANAP protocol. Dr. Nguyen, a DMD, performs LANAP treatments in our office. Dr. Khaef is also part of our dental team, and both doctors stay current with continuing education in dental technology and techniques. Our practice has served patients in the eastern San Gabriel Valley for 20 years.

Our technology includes 3D digital X-rays, 3D scanners, digital impressions, and the PerioLase laser used for LANAP. We use mercury-free materials and BPA-free resins, and we are committed to comfortable, minimally invasive care.

Our West Covina office is on the ground floor and is fully wheelchair accessible. Our office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on weekends.

We treat each patient like family. Many patients tell us the team explains each step clearly and answers their questions, which helps them feel comfortable about their care.

How to book your LANAP evaluation

You can call us at (626) 858-3305 during office hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can also book online. New patients of all ages are welcome. When you call, you can ask for a free insurance eligibility check before your visit, or ask about the $59 new patient special if you do not have insurance.

Harmony Dental Care is located at 148 N Grand Ave, West Covina, CA 91791.