When it comes to advanced dental procedures, technology has significantly improved the ways in which we treat gum disease and other oral health concerns. Among the cutting-edge treatments available today are Fotona TwinLight® and LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) techniques. Both of these treatments use lasers to provide minimally invasive, effective solutions for gum disease, but they differ in technology, procedure protocols, and benefits. If you’re considering a laser gum disease treatment, it’s important to understand the key differences between Fotona TwinLight® and LANAP®.
What is Fotona TwinLight®?
Fotona TwinLight® is a specialized, minimally invasive dental treatment that draws on two types of laser technologies: the Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers. This combination of lasers is used to remove diseased tissue from the periodontal pocket, remove biofilm and calculus from the tooth surface, and generally disinfecting and sealing the treated area — all without surgery or major invasiveness.
The minimally invasive process is performed in stages:
- The first phase removes the diseased lining from deep periodontal pockets, increasing access to the root of the tooth.
- The second phase uses an Erbium laser to clean microbial biofilm and calculus (tartar) from the surface of the tooth root.
- Finally, the area is coagulated and sealed, promoting proper healing of the tooth.
TwinLight® is known for its gentle approach, as it reduces discomfort, minimizes bleeding, and encourages faster healing. It’s considered an effective alternative to traditional scaling and root planing, particularly for patients who want to avoid more invasive dental services.
What is LANAP®?
LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is another laser treatment specifically designed to treat gum disease, but the procedure uses a single Nd:YAG laser to remove bacteria and target disease while leaving healthy tissue intact. Minimally invasive with a faster recovery period than oral surgery, LANAP® is FDA-cleared to promote new bone and tissue growth while treating gum disease and addressing the source of inflammation without harming healthy gum tissue. This process also:
- Slows or prevents loss of attachment between the teeth and soft tissue
- Decreases the depths of periodontal pockets
- Addresses gum disease without the need for cutting, scalpels, or sutures
This procedure is minimally invasive and designed to treat moderate to severe gum disease. Similar to Fotona TwinLight®, LANAP® also involves minimal discomfort and has the added advantage of a quick recovery time due to its non-invasive nature.
Key Differences Between Fotona TwinLight® and LANAP®
Laser Technology
- Fotona TwinLight®: Combines Er:YAG and Nd:YAG laser technologies for a dual-phase treatment approach.
- LANAP®: Utilizes a single Nd:YAG laser, which targets the removal of infected tissue.
Treatment Focus
- Fotona TwinLight®: Focuses on removing diseased tissue, tartar, and biofilm from the periodontal pockets and root surfaces, as well as the sealing and coagulation of the treated region.
- LANAP®: Primarily focuses on the removal of harmful bacteria and infected tissue without harming healthy surrounding tissue. Encourages the formation of new bone in areas between the teeth.
Procedure Phases
- Fotona TwinLight®: Involves three stages: removal of bacteria and disease from the periodontal pocket lining, cleansing and disinfection of calculus/biofilm from the root surface, and the sealing of the affected tissues for faster healing.
- LANAP®: Uses a one-step process to remove diseased tissue and harmful bacteria while encouraging regeneration of bone volume.
Recovery Time
- Both treatments are minimally invasive and result in short recovery times when compared to traditional gum surgery.
Precision and Application
- Fotona TwinLight®: Known for decontaminating deep gum pockets and accelerating the healing process through coagulation and sealing of the treated tissues. This improves upon LANAP® protocols by using two different lasers to treat periodontal disease in one treatment.
- LANAP®: Ideal for moderate to severe gum disease, can remove infected or diseased tissues without harming health gums. This protocol is also FDA-cleared and scientifically proven to regenerate bone and tissues affected by gum disease.
Which Laser Gum Disease Treatment is Right for You?
Fotona TwinLight® and LANAP® are both groundbreaking laser treatments that offer non-invasive solutions to gum disease, each with its distinct approaches and benefits. By understanding how each treatment works and consulting with your dental provider, you can make an informed decision about which laser therapy will best address your concerns. Choosing between Fotona TwinLight® and LANAP® depends on several factors, including the severity of your gum disease, your treatment goals, and the recommendation of your Staten Island dentist or periodontist.
Both treatments offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional gum disease treatment with a scalpel, minimizing discomfort and speeding up recovery time, but your dentist or periodontist will help guide you in selecting the best option based on your unique oral health needs.
If you’re ready to explore your options for gum disease treatment, don’t hesitate to contact LianaSmiles Dentistry for more information about whether Fotona TwinLight® or LANAP® is right for you. With advancements in laser technology, achieving healthier gums and a brighter smile has never been more comfortable or accessible.