LANAP vs. Traditional Gum Surgery
Compare LANAP laser treatment vs. traditional flap surgery. Discover the benefits, recovery, and costs with Dr. Jesse Lemoine in Palm Beach Gardens.
Jan 20, 2026
LANAP vs. Traditional Gum Surgery: A New Era of Periodontal Care
For decades, the standard treatment for advanced periodontal disease involved scalpels, sutures, and a lengthy recovery. Today, however, patients at Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry have access to more comfortable, minimally invasive options. When deciding between LANAP vs. traditional gum surgery (also known as flap surgery), it is important to understand how technology has transformed the way we treat infection. Under the expertise of our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Jesse Lemoine, we utilize the LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) protocol to help our Palm Beach Gardens patients achieve superior results with significantly less downtime.
Understanding Traditional Flap Surgery
Traditional periodontal surgery, or "flap surgery," is an effective but invasive method for reducing periodontal pocket reduction. During this procedure, a surgeon uses a scalpel to cut the gum tissue and "flap" it back to access the tooth roots and underlying bone.
The Process: The surgeon manually scrapes away tartar and infected tissue, sometimes reshaping the bone. The gums are then pulled back tight and secured with sutures.
The Downside: Because healthy tissue is often cut alongside infected tissue, patients may experience gum recession, increased tooth sensitivity, and a longer, more uncomfortable healing period.
The LANAP Advantage: Laser Gum Treatment
LANAP is the only FDA-cleared laser gum treatment scientifically proven to regenerate new bone and soft tissue attachment. Unlike traditional surgery, LANAP does not require scalpels or stitches.
How It Works: Dr. Jesse Lemoine uses a highly specific laser fiber that can distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue. The laser destroys the bacteria and diseased lining of the pocket without harming the healthy gums.
The "Sealing" Effect: After cleaning the roots, the laser is used again to create a sterile blood clot that acts as a natural bandage, "sealing" the pocket and allowing the body to heal itself from the inside out.
LANAP Recovery: Because there is no cutting, the LANAP recovery is remarkably fast. Most patients return to work the very next day and experience minimal swelling or discomfort.
Candidacy and Investment: Gum Surgery Cost
When considering the gum surgery cost, LANAP is often comparable to traditional surgery, especially when you factor in the reduced need for follow-up appointments and pain medication. But who is a candidate? Most patients with moderate-to-severe gum disease are excellent candidates for LANAP. It is particularly beneficial for patients who may have health concerns that make traditional surgery risky, such as those on blood thinners or those with diabetes. During your consultation, Dr. Lemoine will perform a thorough pocket-depth analysis to determine if the laser-assisted protocol is the best path for your clinical needs.
Experience Advanced Laser Periodontics in Palm Beach Gardens
You don't have to fear the treatment for gum disease anymore. At Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are proud to offer the latest in periodontal technology to ensure your comfort and long-term oral health. If you have been told you need gum surgery, schedule a second opinion with Dr. Jesse Lemoine to see if LANAP is right for you. Our Palm Beach Gardens office is equipped with the advanced PerioLase® technology needed to save your teeth and restore your smile. Contact us today to learn more about our minimally invasive options.
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