What is LAPIP?
Dental implants offer a fantastic solution for missing teeth, but they're not immune to problems. Peri-implantitis, a severe form of gum disease, can attack the area around an implant. If your implant shows signs of trouble, there may be a solution for you—LAPIP.
Below is information about what LAPIP is, why it might be the right choice to meet your needs, and how the process works.
What is LAPIP?
There are multiple issues that can occur after a dental implant is placed. One such issue is peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is a serious infection surrounding an implant and it poses a significant risk to an implant’s longevity. Fortunately, innovative treatments like LAPIP allow for the treatment of peri-implantitis.
LAPIP (not to be confused with LANAP) stands for Laser-Assisted Peri-Implantitis Protocol. This specialized treatment utilizes a highly targeted laser to eliminate bacteria and infected tissue around the failing implant. The laser's precision offers significant advantages, preserving healthy gum tissue and promoting potential bone regeneration. The goal of LAPIP isn't simply infection control—it's designed to stabilize the implant and encourage a strong, healthy connection to the surrounding bone.
Why LAPIP?
Peri-implantitis often begins with subtle symptoms like redness, swelling, or bleeding around your implant. If you notice these signs, or if your dental implant feels loose, see your dentist immediately.
While not everyone with peri-implantitis is a candidate for LAPIP, it offers distinct advantages. These include:
- Minimally Invasive: LAPIP involves less cutting and tissue removal than traditional surgery, leading to faster healing and less discomfort.
- High Success Rate: Studies show LAPIP is effective in saving failing implants and restoring gum health.
- No Discomfort: The procedure is generally pain-free and there is no discomfort. After the procedure, only over-the-counter pain medication is required.
The LAPIP Process
Your LAPIP treatment will be performed by a trained periodontist (gum specialist). Below is a more detailed breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Laser Treatment: Your periodontist will use a specialized laser to target and remove diseased tissue and bacteria from around the implant. The laser destroys harmful bacteria while leaving healthy tissue intact.
2. Surface Cleaning: Ultrasonic tools will be used to carefully remove tartar and other buildup from the implant surface. This ensures a clean base for new tissue attachment.
3. Potential Modification: In some cases, the surrounding bone may be gently modified with the laser to improve the environment for healing.
4. Blood Clot Stimulation: The laser will promote the formation of a stable blood clot, providing a foundation for healing and tissue reattachment to the implant.
The entire process is typically much less invasive than traditional implant revision surgery. Many patients complete the LAPIP procedure within a few appointments and experience minimal discomfort afterward.
Reach Out Today
Don't let peri-implantitis jeopardize your investment in a beautiful smile. If you notice any signs of trouble, such as redness, swelling, bleeding around your implant, or a loose-feeling implant, contact us immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best possible outcome. Our caring team will assess your situation and determine if LAPIP is the right solution to save your implant and restore your oral health.