Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry in Reno, Nevada
When gum disease threatens your smile, the thought of traditional surgery can feel overwhelming. The cutting, bleeding, and lengthy recovery times make many patients put off necessary periodontal disease treatment, allowing the condition to worsen and potentially lead to tooth loss, heart disease, and other serious health complications.
At White Pine Family Dental, we understand these concerns and offer a revolutionary alternative. Our advanced LANAP laser treatment provides a virtually painless way to eliminate diseased gum tissue while encouraging healthy tissue regeneration. With over 30 years of serving Reno patients, we’ve embraced this cutting-edge technology to transform how we approach gum disease treatment, offering remarkable results with minimal discomfort and faster healing times compared to conventional methods.
Periodontal disease affects millions of Americans, progressing from mild inflammation to severe periodontitis that can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. Traditional disease treatment often involved scalpel surgery and sutures, requiring extensive recovery periods and causing significant discomfort. However, laser therapy treatment has revolutionized periodontal care by offering a non-invasive alternative that targets only the infected areas while preserving healthy tissue.
The LANAP protocol uses specific wavelengths of light to selectively remove bacteria and inflamed gum tissue without harming the surrounding healthy structures. This precision allows for better preservation of your natural gum line and connective tissue, reducing the need for soft tissue grafts or bone grafts in many cases. Most patients experience less pain and reduced bleeding during and after the procedure, making it an ideal choice for those with dental anxiety or busy schedules.
Our laser-assisted technology works by creating a specific light frequency that bacteria cannot survive in, while simultaneously stimulating the body’s natural healing process. When treating gum disease with lasers, we can reach deep pockets around teeth that traditional instruments might miss, ensuring a more thorough cleaning and better long-term results.
The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health and medical history to determine the extent of your condition. During treatment, the laser fiber, about the thickness of three human hairs, is gently placed between your tooth and gum to remove infection and diseased tissue. The laser also helps form a stable fibrin clot, which acts as a natural bandage and promotes the reattachment of gum tissue to the tooth surface through a new attachment procedure.
Reduced bleeding during and after the procedure due to immediate cauterization
Preservation of a more natural tooth and gum structure
Elimination of cutting and suturing found in traditional surgery
Ability to treat specific areas without affecting surrounding healthy tissue
Stimulation of stem cells for bone and tissue regeneration
Lower risk of infection due to the laser’s sterilizing effect
Faster return to normal activities and diet
This effective treatment approach means you can often return to work the same day, unlike traditional surgery, which may require several days of recovery.
Your comfort is our priority throughout the entire process. While some patients may receive a light anesthetic spray, many find the procedure comfortable enough without traditional numbing injections. The LANAP treatment typically takes two visits of about two hours each, treating one side of the mouth at each appointment to minimize discomfort and allow for easier eating during recovery.
Following your procedure, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing. Most patients can manage any mild discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and report experiencing significantly less pain than they anticipated. We recommend a soft diet for the first few days, and many patients use this opportunity to improve their oral hygiene habits with tools like a water flosser or specialized interdental cleaning tool.
The healing process after laser therapy is remarkably quick. Within 24 hours, the treated areas begin to regenerate, and patients often notice improvement in symptoms like bad breath and tooth sensitivity within days. We’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment’s success. Many dental insurance plans cover laser periodontal therapy, and our team can help you understand your benefits and coverage options.
The success of your periodontal disease treatment extends beyond the procedure itself. Maintaining good oral and gum health requires ongoing dental care and regular professional maintenance. Studies show that laser therapy offers several benefits for long-term success, including a much lower recurrence rate of gum disease compared to traditional surgical methods.
For advanced cases of periodontitis, we may recommend complementary treatments such as root planing or additional therapies to achieve optimal results. If you experience any of the following symptoms: persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, early intervention with laser therapy can be a source of preventive care that prevents the need for more extensive procedures later.
At White Pine Family Dental, we combine decades of experience with the latest technology to provide exceptional periodontal maintenance and treatment options. Dr. Prince, Dr. Papez-Berg, and Dr. Nguyen have transformed countless smiles through our comprehensive approach to dental care, helping patients overcome their fear of treatment while achieving lasting oral health. Our practice’s commitment to staying at the forefront of dental technology means you receive the most advanced, comfortable care available.
Whether you’re dealing with early-stage gum disease or require more extensive periodontal therapy, our team provides personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. We work with numerous insurance providers, including Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, and others, to make this life-changing treatment accessible. Don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from achieving the healthy smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation or call us at 775-825-6655 nd discover how laser therapy can restore your gum health with minimal disruption to your daily life.
"*" indicates required fields