Wheeler Family Dentistry
Bleeding gums, loose teeth, bad breath that won’t go away, a history of diabetes, currently taking blood thinning medicine, family members that lost teeth at an early age; these are all signs that you may benefit from a different way of treating gum disease.
I was given a great opportunity to speak with Dr. Tom Wheeler, DMD, located in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Dr. Wheeler explained his office procedures and introduced me to a very unique procedure called Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP™). LANAP™ is a patented treatment used only with the PerioLase® laser system. This system was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004 and is in use by over 700 general dentists and periodontists internationally. Dr. Wheeler is the first to bring it to Kentuckiana.
LANAP™ is a procedure that treats periodontitis. Periodontitis is an infection in the gums that could increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and high blood sugar and is linked to pre-mature birth. Since this disease typically does not hurt, many people ignore it until it is in an advanced stage. According to the American Dental Association, nearly 60% of Americans have some type of gum disease.
LANAP™ is a wonderful procedure and could be very beneficial to individuals who have very busy lifestyles. Typically, the procedure can be completed during an extended lunch, resulting in the ability to return to work. This procedure is described by patients as being very comfortable during treatment and while they heal. The alternative could result in painful pocket reduction surgery, soft tissue graphs and bone grafting, which may lead to even more time away from work and increased cost.
Dr. Wheeler said “It is exciting to offer another option to people who thought they had to lose their teeth. At the same time, this offers a patient-friendly method of treating the disease earlier, before things get really bad.” To determine the extent of each individual’s condition, information is collected by performing the following steps:
1. Periodontal probing to check the pocket depths.
2. Radiographic images.
3. Family history.
4. Medical condition.
5. Dental care history.
Once the above steps are completed and reviewed and Dr. Wheeler determines you as a candidate for the procedure, the following steps would guide you back to health.
A) Perio Probe – indicates excessive pocket depth.
B) Laser light – kills bacteria and diseased tissue.
C) Ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments – used to remove root tarter.
D) Laser – finishes cleaning and sterilizing pocket which aids in sealing the pocket closed, not allowing new germs to enter.
E) Reattachment of connective tissue to the clean root surface with a stable fibrin clot and gingival crest – creates “a closed system”.
F) Bite trauma is adjusted.
G) New attachment is regenerated. New bond and new ligament is formed and healing occurs.
H) Excellent home care and regular 3 month cleanings – needed to have the best results.
As for the investment on the patient’s part for this treatment, Dr. Wheeler stated “For about the same price as replacing one lost tooth with an implant, you can treat your entire mouth.” If you have questions about the procedure or to see if you are a candidate for this procedure, contact Dr. Wheeler at 1-888-70 LANAP (705-2627) or 502- 543-2123. Www.KentuckyLaserDentist.com. Or feel free to email Dr. Wheeler with any questions drwheeler@wheelerfamilydentistry.com
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