LANAP Laser Therapy in Beverly, Chicago

What Is LANAP?

LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. Gum disease (periodontitis) is an infection that slowly destroys the gum and bone holding your teeth in place. LANAP is the first and only laser protocol FDA-cleared for periodontal regeneration (new attachment) — meaning it's cleared not just to treat the infection but to help your body regrow the gum attachment and bone that support the tooth. The PerioLase MVP-7 laser used for LANAP received that clearance in 2016.

The PerioLase MVP-7 uses a specific wavelength of light that targets diseased tissue and bacteria while sparing healthy tissue. That makes LANAP very different from traditional gum surgery, which cuts the gums open with a scalpel and closes them with stitches.

Why Gum Disease Is Serious

Periodontal (gum) disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to higher risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections. Treating gum disease isn't just about your teeth — it's about your whole-body health.

Pregnant or planning to be? Gum health matters during pregnancy, and gum treatment during pregnancy is generally safe — talk to us and your OB.

LANAP vs. Traditional Gum Surgery

Signs You May Need Gum Treatment

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing
• Gum recession — teeth appearing longer than before
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing

What to Expect

• Numbing: the area is numbed with local anesthetic, so you feel pressure rather than pain.
• Sedation if you want it: Dr. Rowe is sedation-certified and offers nitrous, oral, and IV sedation in-house.
• Afterward: expect some soreness, and stick to a soft diet for a few days while your gums settle.
• Follow-up visits: you'll come back for checkups so Dr. Rowe can track how your gums and bone are healing over the following months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is LANAP laser gum therapy?

LANAP is an FDA-cleared laser treatment for gum disease. It removes infected tissue without a scalpel and is cleared for periodontal regeneration (new attachment), with usually faster healing than traditional surgery.

Is Dr. Rowe trained in LANAP?

Yes. Dr. Rowe is LANAP-certified and performs the procedure himself here at Comfort Family Dental.

Is LANAP covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans with periodontal benefits cover LANAP. Our team will verify your benefits so you know your cost before treatment begins.

How many LANAP sessions will I need?

Typically the full mouth is treated in two sessions — right side at one appointment, left side at a second within a week. Each session takes approximately 2 hours.

Is LANAP safe?

Yes. LANAP is FDA-cleared, and Dr. Rowe is certified in the LANAP protocol. He'll review your health history first to make sure it's right for you.

Can I have gum treatment while pregnant?

Gum health matters during pregnancy, and gum treatment during pregnancy is generally safe — talk to us and your OB about timing.