When it comes to gum disease treatment, two popular procedures that often come up are LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and Assisted Curettage. While both methods aim to address periodontal disease, they use different approaches and offer unique advantages and limitations. But whats the difference between LANAP and Assisted Courage? In this article, we’ll break down both treatments, compare them side by side, and help you decide which procedure might be the best for your needs.
What is LANAP?
LANAP is a cutting-edge, laser-based treatment used to treat gum disease, specifically periodontal disease. It involves using a specialized laser to target and eliminate infected tissue in the gums without the need for scalpels or sutures. The laser promotes the body’s natural healing processes, stimulating the growth of new, healthy tissue.
One of the main benefits of LANAP is its minimally invasive nature. Because it doesn’t require cutting into the gums, patients typically experience less discomfort and a faster recovery time compared to traditional gum surgery. LANAP is known for its precision, ensuring that only diseased tissue is removed while leaving healthy gum tissue intact.
How Does LANAP Work?
LANAP uses a laser fiber inserted into the pockets of the gums. The laser’s light energy targets the bacteria and infected tissue, effectively cleaning and sterilizing the area. The heat from the laser also helps to promote clotting and tissue regeneration. After the laser treatment, the gums are carefully sealed, and the healing process begins.
The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia, making it comfortable for most patients. Depending on the severity of the disease, the procedure may take between 1 to 2 hours per quadrant of the mouth.
What is Assisted Curettage?
Assisted Curettage is a more traditional method used to treat gum disease. It involves manual scaling and root planing with the help of ultrasonic tools or hand instruments. During the procedure, a dentist or periodontist scrapes away the plaque and tartar build-up on the tooth surfaces and below the gum line.
While Assisted Curettage may not sound as high-tech as LANAP, it is still an effective treatment for gum disease, particularly in cases that don’t require laser intervention. The goal of Assisted Curettage is to remove harmful bacteria and smooth the root surfaces to prevent further plaque build-up.
How Does Assisted Curettage Work?
The procedure begins with the local anesthesia to numb the gums. The dentist or periodontist then uses ultrasonic tools or hand instruments to remove plaque, tartar, and infected tissue from the gum pockets. The area is then thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to promote healing.
Unlike LANAP, Assisted Curettage typically requires stitches to close the gums and may involve more post-treatment care. Healing time for this procedure can vary, but it may take a bit longer compared to LANAP.
Whats The Difference Between Lanap and Assisted Courage
Now that you understand what each procedure entails, let’s break down the key differences between whats the difference between LANAP and Assisted Courage:
| Factor | LANAP | Assisted Curettage |
| Technology | Laser-based (minimally invasive) | Manual, using ultrasonic or hand instruments |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive, no scalpels | More invasive, requires surgical tools |
| Recovery Time | Faster, minimal discomfort | Longer, more discomfort and healing time |
| Risk of Complications | Lower risk due to precision of the laser | Higher risk due to manual scraping |
| Procedure Time | Shorter, typically 1-2 hours | Longer, may take several hours |
| Cost | Higher due to advanced technology | Lower cost for standard procedures |
| Post-Treatment Care | Easier, minimal aftercare | Requires more attention to healing |
When is LANAP Recommended?
LANAP is typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease who have not responded to more conservative treatments, like scaling and root planing. It’s also an option for those who wish to avoid traditional gum surgery, as it offers a quicker recovery time and minimal discomfort.
Additionally, LANAP is ideal for individuals looking for long-term results without the need for repeat treatments. This is due to the regenerative effects of the laser, which can encourage the growth of new gum tissue and help reattach the gums to the teeth.
When is Assisted Curettage Recommended?
Assisted Curettage is typically recommended for patients with early to moderate gum disease. If the condition isn’t severe enough to warrant laser treatment, this method can still effectively clean out plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the gums.
It may also be recommended for patients who prefer traditional treatments over newer, laser-based technologies. While the procedure may take longer and involve more discomfort, Assisted Curettage is often a viable option for those on a budget or who don’t have access to advanced treatments like LANAP.
Benefits of LANAP
- Minimally Invasive: The laser removes infected tissue without cutting or stitching, reducing the risk of complications.
- Faster Recovery: Since there’s minimal disruption to the gums, patients typically experience less pain and heal more quickly.
- Regeneration of Tissue: The laser stimulates the body’s natural healing process, encouraging the growth of healthy tissue.
- Less Discomfort: Compared to traditional surgery, LANAP results in less bleeding, swelling, and post-treatment pain.
- Effective for Severe Cases: LANAP is often more effective than other treatments for severe gum disease.
Benefits of Assisted Curettage
- Proven Effectiveness: Assisted Curettage has been used for decades and is a tried-and-true method for gum disease treatment.
- Less Expensive: The cost of Assisted Curettage is usually lower compared to LANAP, making it more accessible to a broader range of patients.
- Available to More Patients: Not everyone qualifies for LANAP due to cost or eligibility factors, but Assisted Curettage remains a practical option for many.
Risks and Side Effects of LANAP
While LANAP is generally safe, there are still some potential risks and side effects to consider:
- Slight Discomfort: While the procedure is minimally invasive, some patients may experience mild discomfort during or after treatment.
- Infection: Although rare, there is a chance of infection if proper aftercare isn’t followed.
- Gum Recession: In some cases, LANAP can cause gum recession, though this is uncommon.
Risks and Side Effects of Assisted Curettage
As with any surgical procedure, Assisted Curettage comes with its own set of risks:
- Post-treatment Pain: Since the procedure is more invasive, patients might experience more pain and swelling afterward.
- Infection: The use of manual instruments can sometimes introduce bacteria into the gums, leading to infection.
- Scarring and Gum Recession: With traditional surgical methods, there’s a higher risk of scarring and gum recession over time.
Success Rates & Long-Term Results
In general, LANAP offers a higher success rate than Assisted Curettage due to its precision and ability to regenerate tissue. Many patients see significant improvements in gum health after one or two sessions. With proper aftercare, the results of LANAP can be long-lasting.
On the other hand, Assisted Curettage can be effective for patients with less severe gum disease, but it may require more frequent maintenance treatments. The results may not be as long-lasting as those of LANAP, especially if the patient doesn’t follow up with regular cleanings and care.
Cost Comparison and Insurance Considerations
The cost of LANAP is typically higher than Assisted Curettage, due to the advanced technology involved. On average, LANAP can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 per quadrant, depending on the severity of the gum disease and the dental practice. Some insurance plans may cover LANAP, but it’s best to check with your provider before scheduling the procedure.
Assisted Curettage tends to be more affordable, usually ranging from $500 to $2,500 per quadrant. However, as with LANAP, coverage can vary based on your insurance plan, so it’s important to confirm with your provider.
Recovery and Aftercare
LANAP Aftercare:
- Less Discomfort: After LANAP, you can typically return to normal activities within a day or two.
- Follow-up: Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled within 6 months to monitor progress.
Assisted Curettage Aftercare:
- More Rest Needed: Since Assisted Curettage is more invasive, you may need a few days off work and a longer recovery time.
- Sutures: The use of stitches means more aftercare to ensure proper healing.
Professional Consultation: Which Procedure is Right for You?
Choosing between LANAP and Assisted Curettage depends on a variety of factors including the severity of your gum disease, budget, and personal preferences. To decide whats the difference between LANAP and Assisted Courage and which is right for you, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional. They’ll evaluate your gum health, provide a diagnosis, and recommend the best treatment plan.
