LANAP Treatment in Rockville MD

Understanding Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease, and it causes red, swollen, and sometimes bleeding gums. When gingivitis is left untreated it leads to a condition called periodontitis. Untreated periodontitis can lead to bone loss, gum recession, and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Symptoms
Gum disease manifests in many ways. It can start subtly but progresses over time. It is important to detect gum disease early to avoid long-term damage.

Here are some symptoms that you may experience:
- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy, pink gums should be firm. Inflammation can be the first sign that something is wrong.
- Bleeding While Brushing or Flossing: While occasional bleeds may not be alarming to some, persistent bleeding can indicate gum irritation or infection.
- Persistent Bad Breath or Bad Taste: This is caused by bacteria in the gums.
- Teeth Appearing Longer or With Receding Gums: Gum recession exposes more root material, giving teeth a longer appearance. This can lead to increased sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: As the disease progresses, it can weaken the bone structure that supports teeth, causing them to move and become loose.
- Deep Pockets Between Teeth and Gingiva: These pockets are a breeding ground of bacteria, exacerbate the problem, and make cleaning more difficult.
- Pus in Between Teeth and Gums: In more advanced cases, the infection may be visible, indicating that professional treatment is required.
- Difficulty Chewing: Pain and eating discomfort are often signs of advanced gum disease. This requires immediate attention.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque and tartar buildup on teeth and gums are the main causes of gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms daily on teeth. If it is not removed with proper brushing and flossing, it becomes tartar. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove this accumulated tartar.

Gum disease can also be caused by:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque can accumulate, so brushing and flossing need to be done correctly.
- Tobacco Use and Smoking: Tobacco use and Smoking allow bacteria to adhere to the teeth and gums more readily. In turn, Smoking weakens the immune system, making it more challenging to fight gum infections.
- Hormonal Shifts: Menopause, pregnancy, and other hormonal changes can cause gums to be more sensitive. These added hormones cause gum inflammation which lead to bacterial accumulation and disease.
- Genetic Predisposition: A history of gum disease in your family can increase the risk.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid are associated with higher rates of gum diseases.
- Some Medications: Certain drugs can cause dry mouth by reducing saliva and increasing gum disease risk.
- Stress: Chronic anxiety can affect your body's capacity to fight infection, including gum disease.

LANAP = A Minimally Invasive Solution

Starbrite Dental is proud to offer the LANAP procedure, a minimally invasive and advanced treatment for the removal of bacteria and diseased tissue.

Our Comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment Plan

Starbrite Dental will develop a plan that is tailored to your needs when you come in for gum disease treatment. Our team will begin by performing a comprehensive examination and using diagnostic imaging to determine the severity of your condition. LANAP, for many patients, is the ideal treatment. However, we can also offer other periodontal treatments if necessary.

Gum Disease and Overall Health

Gum disease has been linked to a variety of systemic health problems. Infected gums may cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and contribute to certain conditions.Gum disease can affect not only your oral health but also your overall well-being.( I moved this line here instead of at the very bottom of the list because it looked out of place and didn't make sense as an ending to a section.)

Cardiovascular Disease: Chronic inflammation caused by gum disease increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease.
Diabetes: High blood sugar can worsen gum disease and make healing more difficult.
Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with gum disease have a higher risk of preterm birth or low birth weight.
Respiratory Infections: Inhalation from the bacteria in your mouth can cause lung infection and worsen pneumonia.

Schedule an Appointment

Gum Disease Prevention

Gum disease can be prevented by taking certain (you do not want to repeat the same word in the same sentence) measures. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy gums:

Brush and Floss Every Day: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. Floss at least once a day to remove plaque between teeth.
Dental Checkups Every Six Months: Schedule professional cleanings every six months to catch problems early.
Stop Smoking: If smoking is a problem for you, quitting will reduce your risk of gum disease.
Balanced Diet: Vitamins and minerals are important for gum health.
Manage Health Conditions: Control your overall health condition such as diabetes to reduce the risk of gum disease. (you do not want to just limit it to diabetes. )
Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash: A mouthwash that is antimicrobial can reduce bacteria and plaque in your mouth.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking more water promotes saliva production, which naturally cleans the mouth and reduces bacteria.

Benefits of the LANAP, Treatment
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is more comfortable because no scalpels or sutures need to be used.
- Faster Healing: Laser promotes tissue regeneration and quicker recovery.
- Less Pain and Swelling: Patients experience less discomfort and swelling than with traditional gum surgery.
- Preserve healthy tissue: The laser’s precision targets only diseased tissues, preserving healthy bone and gum tissue.
- Effective in Advanced Cases: The LANAP treatment can be used to treat cases of severe gum disease that would otherwise require more invasive treatments.
- Better Overall Health: Gum disease treatment can reduce the risk for systemic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
What to Expect During LANAP, Treatment

Assessment: We assess the depth of gum pockets and the extent of infection using advanced diagnostic instruments.
Laser Treatment: The laser LANAP is used to remove bacteria, diseased tissue, and stimulate healthy tissue growth.
Tissue Reattachment: The laser encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth, reducing pocket depths and preventing further bacterial accumulation.
After-Treatment Care: We offer detailed instructions for after-treatment to ensure optimal healing. We monitor your progress by scheduling follow-up appointments.
Why Choose Starbrite Dental for Your Dental Care?
- Team of Experts: We have a team of dentists who specialize in laser dentistry and periodontal treatment. Their extensive training ensures you receive top-notch care.
- The Latest Technology: Our treatments are effective and comfortable because we use the most up-to-date tools and techniques.
- Patient-Centered Care: We place the highest priority on your comfort and satisfaction. We are here to help you with every step and answer any questions you may have.
- Holistic Approach: We believe that dental health is closely related to overall health. Our treatments aim to improve your overall quality of life.

Schedule an Appointment

What Patients Are Saying About StarBrite Dental

"I came here on a Thursday evening and everyone was very sweet and helpful. I got a root canal done with the endodontist Dr. Ali and it was very quick and easy. And even PAINLESS.

The experience is very patient centered. They made sure to take care of me before my trip. Felt very taken care of here. Wish I had come here sooner!"

- Lea M.

★★★★★

"Dr. Ledoux had been excellent throughout my treatment here. I had to get a crown done and her gentle touch made it very easy. She is very caring. DR. Ali the root canal specialist calmed me down during my root canal procedure and the hygienist made everything wrap up with a wonderful cleaning"

- Ana A.

★★★★★

"Office is very quick and professional. I had a root canal today and I was very nervous going into it. We finished before I even realized what was going on. I think I had much more fear than pain. Dr. Ali was very reassuring and I can’t thank this office more for helping me with my dental care"

- Deborah J.

★★★★★

Book Your Consultation Now

Do not let gum disease affect your confidence and oral health. Call Starbrite Dental to learn more about LANAP and how it can transform your smile. Our team of friendly professionals is here to help you reach a brighter, healthier future.

Schedule an Appointment

Blog articles.