Protect Your Gums with LANAP Laser Therapy in Waterford, MI
Gum disease can silently affect your oral health, leading to tooth loss and other health concerns if left untreated. At Oakland Family Dental, our Waterford dentist, Dr. Amanda Sheehan, offers advanced LANAP Laser Therapy to safely and effectively treat gum disease without the discomfort of traditional surgery. Serving patients in Waterford, Clarkston, Pontiac, Rochester Hills, and surrounding areas, we provide compassionate, effective dental care to help you maintain a healthy smile.
If you are looking for gum disease treatment near you, contact our Waterford dental office by calling (248) 674-0384 and our dental team will guide you through every step of the process.
Why Our Waterford Patients Trust Dr. Sheehan for Gum Care
At Oakland Family Dental, our patients’ comfort and care are our top priority. Dr. Amanda Sheehan and our team provide personalized treatment plans and gentle care to ensure every visit is a positive experience. As Michelle G., one of our patients, shared:
- “I want to sincerely thank the entire team for the amazing care you’ve shown me. After going through a difficult situation, I was anxious about my visit, but each of you made me feel comfortable, safe, and at ease. Your kindness, patience, and professionalism do not go unnoticed. It means more to me than I can even put into words. I’m so grateful to have found a dental office where I feel comfortable and genuinely cared for.”
This kind of feedback reflects the dedication and compassion our Waterford dentist brings to every patient, helping build trust and confidence in their oral health journey.
What is LANAP Laser Therapy?
LANAP, which stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is a minimally invasive laser treatment that targets infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. LANAP Laser Therapy is a modern periodontal procedure that uses a specialized dental laser to remove diseased gum tissue and bacteria from around your teeth. This innovative approach allows your gums to heal naturally and encourages the reattachment of gum tissue to the teeth.
The treatment is precise, targeting only the areas affected by gum disease while leaving healthy tissue intact. LANAP is suitable for patients with mild, moderate, and even advanced gum disease, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort and a faster recovery, making it an attractive option for those seeking effective gum care in Waterford and nearby communities.
Signs You Might Need LANAP Laser Therapy
Gum disease can progress slowly, and many patients do not notice symptoms until the disease becomes advanced. Common signs include:
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- Tooth sensitivity or mobility
- Pockets forming between teeth and gums
If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to schedule a consultation with your dentist in Waterford by calling (248) 674-0384. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve long-term oral health outcomes.
Benefits of LANAP Laser Therapy
LANAP Laser Therapy offers numerous advantages over traditional gum surgery, making it a preferred choice for many patients seeking effective gum disease treatment near Waterford, MI. Some of the key benefits include:
- Minimally invasive treatment: Targets only diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue, no cutting or stitching required.
- Faster healing and less discomfort: Reduced pain, swelling, and bleeding compared to traditional surgery, with quicker recovery.
- Promotes natural gum regeneration: Encourages reattachment of gums to teeth and stimulates healthy tissue growth.
- Reduces risk of infection: The laser kills bacteria while treating the affected area, improving overall oral health.
- Protects tooth structure: Preserves healthy gum and bone tissue, supporting long-term stability of teeth.
- Safe for a wide range of patients: Suitable for mild, moderate, or advanced gum disease.
How LANAP Laser Therapy Works
The LANAP procedure is precise and designed for patient comfort:
- Assessment and Planning: Dr. Sheehan examines your gums and uses advanced imaging to determine the extent of the disease.
- Laser Treatment: The dental laser removes bacteria and infected tissue without harming healthy gum tissue.
- Cleaning and Healing: The treated areas are cleaned and sealed with the laser, encouraging natural tissue regeneration.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments help ensure optimal healing and maintenance of gum health.
This minimally invasive approach often eliminates the need for sutures and allows most patients to return to their normal routine quickly.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums After LANAP
Keeping your gums healthy after LANAP requires good oral habits and regular dental visits. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and use any antimicrobial rinses recommended by Dr. Amanda Sheehan. Attend routine checkups at Oakland Family Dental to monitor healing and prevent gum disease from returning. Avoid tobacco, eat a balanced diet, and follow your personalized post-treatment care plan for the best long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Healthy gums are pale pink, firm, and fit snugly around your teeth. If you notice any changes in the appearance or feel of your gums, it’s important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sheehan. Gum disease has different stages and as it progresses, more serious issues can develop. Later stages of gum disease have a host of different indicators including:
- Gums that appear swollen or puffy
- Dusky red, bright red, or purplish gums
- Gums that are tender to the touch
- Gums that bleed or spitting out blood when flossing or brushing
- Loose teeth or spaces developing between the teeth
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Pain when chewing
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Gum disease is completely preventable and the early stages are reversible which is why it’s important to keep a lookout for signs and symptoms. The first stage of gum disease (gingivitis) can sometimes be asymptomatic, so it’s important to keep a consistent oral hygiene routine paired with biannual visits at our Waterford office to ensure your oral health stays in peak condition. If your oral health has fallen by the wayside, we can help you with our effective LANAP® treatment to get you back on track.
Am I eligible for LANAP® treatment?
Most people are great candidates for LANAP® treatment. It can even help those who may otherwise disqualify for other gum treatments such as pregnant patients and those with underlying health conditions like diabetes.
If you’re suffering from the effects of periodontal disease and are willing to make a positive change in your oral health, LANAP® treatment is for you.
What do I do after my LANAP® treatment?
During your procedure, the laser used in your LANAP® treatment stimulates the healing process by sealing off blood vessels and creating a clot, which means downtime is minimal. It is normal to experience the following:
- Gum discoloration
- Minimal swelling
- Light bleeding
- Tooth sensitivity
- Soreness or tenderness of gums or teeth
- Temporarily altered taste
It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions from Dr. Sheehan. We may recommend avoiding brushing for a predetermined amount of time or eating soft foods following treatment. While the treatment itself takes minimal time, in order to ensure the success of your healing process, we may suggest temporary dietary changes or a specific oral hygiene routine designed to preserve the clot so that you can heal effectively.
What do I do if I experience complications after treatment?
Complications following LANAP® treatment are extremely rare. If you experience prolonged pain, swelling, or excessive bleeding after a few days following treatment, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Sheehan at our Waterford office by dialing (248) 487-8765.
Achieve Healthier Gums with Gum Disease Treatment Near You
LANAP Laser Therapy at Oakland Family Dental offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution for gum disease. With Dr. Amanda Sheehan’s expertise and a compassionate team by your side, patients in Waterford and nearby communities can achieve healthier gums, prevent tooth loss, and enjoy a more comfortable dental experience. Don’t wait for gum disease to progress. Contact our Waterford dental office by calling (248) 674-0384 to schedule your consultation and take control of your oral health.