LANAP Gum Disease Treatment in Anaheim, CA

Gum disease or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that damages the tissues that support your teeth and causes the gums to swell and bleed.  Many people are unaware they have it until it has progressed to a stage that requires treatment. While traditional surgery is the standard treatment for most cases of gum disease, many patients worry about pain, swelling, root exposure, and postoperative discomfort.

Fortunately, periodontal disease can also be treated with a minimally invasive alternative called LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure). It is the world's first and only laser protocol cleared by the FDA for true periodontal regeneration. Using a specialized PerioLase® MVP-7™ dental laser, Dr. Douglas Kim can remove diseased gum tissue, eliminate harmful bacteria, and stimulate bone regeneration and healthy gum attachment without a single incision or stitch.

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How LANAP Compares to Traditional Gum Surgery

LANAP therapy offers significant advantages over conventional periodontal surgery. Here is why patients throughout Anaheim and Orange County choose this less invasive approach at First Dental Care.

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What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious bacterial infection that damages the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque that spreads and grows below the gum line. It’s a common condition among adults due to poor oral hygiene or genetics. Without treatment, the disease progresses and causes the  affected tooth to become loose and may fall out or need to be extracted.

What to Expect During Your LANAP Treatment

Dr. Kim begins the LANAP procedure with a comprehensive exam by measuring deep pockets in the teeth to identify bone loss and areas requiring treatment. This ensures you receive a personalized treatment plan before the procedure begins. Then, local anesthesia is applied to fully numb the treatment area.

With the area completely numbed, Dr. Kim will gently insert a thin laser fiber (about the size of three human hairs) to the tooth and gum. The laser vaporizes the infected tissue and harmful bacteria while preserving healthy tissue.

Next, Dr. Kim will gently scale the root surfaces to remove tartar deposits and plaque. The laser is then used a second time at a different setting to seal the gum pocket by creating a stable fibrin blood clot, which acts as a natural biological bandage to keep bacteria out and initiate tissue regeneration.

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Who Is a Good Candidate for LANAP Treatment?

You may be a strong candidate for LANAP at First Dental Care if any of the following apply to you:

Moderate to severe gum disease (pockets 4mm+)

Swollen, bleeding, or receding gums

Loose or shifting teeth due to bone loss

Dental phobia or anxiety about traditional surgery

Needs faster recovery and less downtime

We highly recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Douglas Kim to see if you are a good candidate for LANAP in Anaheim, CA. Contact First Dental Care at (714) 527-5656 today to schedule your evaluation.

Dr. Douglas Kim, Certified LANAP Provider in Anaheim, CA

Serving patients in Garden Grove, Orange, Fullerton, and other Orange County communities

Dr. Douglas Kim is one of the few dental specialists in Anaheim, CA certified in LANAP. He completed a rigorous, year-long, hands-on training program to perform the LANAP protocol.

For our patients, Dr. Kim's certification means you are in the hands of a true specialist who combines advanced clinical expertise with a warm, patient-first philosophy.

Dr. Douglas Kim

Certified LANAP Provider · First Dental Care, Anaheim CA

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Frequently Asked Questions About LANAP

Is LANAP treatment painful?

LANAP is performed under local anesthesia, so the procedure itself is not painful. Most patients report only mild pressure or a gentle warmth during treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is typically minor and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. The experience is far more comfortable than traditional gum surgery for the vast majority of patients.

How long does the LANAP procedure take?

Dr. Kim typically treats half of the mouth per session. Each session takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. For many patients, full-mouth LANAP treatment is completed in two appointments scheduled one week apart. Some patients with less extensive disease may complete treatment in a single longer session.

How long is LANAP recovery?

One of LANAP's greatest advantages is its dramatically shorter recovery time. Most patients are back to their normal routine within 24 hours. You will be advised to eat soft foods for a few days, but there are no sutures to remove and no extended downtime required.

Does insurance cover LANAP treatment in Anaheim?

Most dental insurance plans that cover conventional periodontal surgery also cover LANAP. Coverage varies by carrier and individual plan. The team at First Dental Care will work directly with your insurance provider to verify your benefits and provide a clear estimate of any out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.

Is LANAP as effective as traditional gum surgery?

Yes, and research indicates LANAP produces superior long-term outcomes. It is the only FDA-cleared treatment for true periodontal regeneration, meaning it can grow back lost bone and tissue rather than simply removing the diseased tissue. Studies have shown excellent tooth stability and retreatment rates compared to traditional surgery.

Can I eat normally after LANAP?

For the first few days following LANAP, a soft-food diet is recommended to allow the treatment area to heal undisturbed. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or sharp-edged foods during initial healing. Dr. Kim will provide detailed post-care instructions. Most patients return to a normal diet within one to two weeks.

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