Periodontology residents at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry have become among the first in the nation to begin training to integrate laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) and laser-assisted peri-implantitis procedure (LAPIP) protocols into their curriculum. This ultimately will allow them to deliver treatment that is less painful and results in faster recovery.

LANAP and LAPIP protocol training is delivered in three parts. Residents are instructed by Dr. Dolphus Dawson III, an Institute for Advance Laser Dentistry certified instructor and UKCD’s Program Director for Graduate Periodontology.

"One-third of American Academy of Periodontology members are trained in LANAP," Dawson explained, "We offer residents many opportunities to gain exposure to valuable skill sets through our broad-based, strong clinical program, and this is no exception. Upon graduation, residents will now have the option to join a practice that already works with the laser."

Division Chief of Periodontology Dr. Mohanad Al-Sabbagh explains how this cutting-edge technology also works to the advantage of the patient. “Patients benefit from laser-assisted periodontal therapies as they typically have a much less traumatic experience, no cutting of the gingival tissue, no sutures, and less post-operative complications,” Al-Sabbagh said.

Developed by Robert H. Gregg of Millennium Dental Technologies Inc., LANAP protocol offers a less painful, but more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery for treating gum disease. The FDA-approved protocol works by targeting the source of inflammation without hurting or removing healthy gum tissue. It slows — and in some cases, stops — gum loss without the need for incision. LANAP is the only research-proven methodology that results in true gum regeneration, new bone growth and gum tissue reattachment.

LAPIP protocol was developed as a more patient-friendly, predictable solution for peri-implantitis, an infectious disease that causes gum inflammation and bone loss around dental implants. Studies indicate 95 percent of failing implants treated with the LAPIP protocol have reintegrated and stabilized, resulting in significant regrowth of bone around the implant.