Dental implants are a fantastic option for replacing missing teeth, offering durability, aesthetics, and improved quality of life. But even implants aren't immune to problems. Peri-implantitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue around an implant, can threaten its stability and ultimately lead to its failure. Fortunately, there's hope with LAPIP, a minimally invasive laser treatment that can save your smile.
What is LAPIP?
LAPIP stands for Laser Assisted Peri-Implantitis Protocol. It's a specific treatment approach using a specialized laser to combat peri-implantitis and promote healing. Unlike traditional surgical methods that involve cutting and suturing, LAPIP offers a more gentle and precise approach.
How Does it Work?
The LAPIP protocol involves several steps:
1. Diagnosis and Assessment: Your dentist will assess the extent of peri-implantitis and determine if LAPIP is the right treatment for you.
2. Laser Disinfection: A specific laser wavelength targets infected tissue and bacteria around the implant, removing them while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
3. Deep Cleaning: Ultrasonic scalers remove any remaining debris and further clean the implant surface.
4. Tissue Regeneration: The laser stimulates blood clotting and promotes the growth of new healthy tissue around the implant.
5. Post-Treatment Care: This includes specific instructions for oral hygiene and monitoring to ensure successful healing.
Benefits of LAPIP:
* Minimally invasive: Less discomfort, bleeding, and swelling compared to traditional surgery.
* Faster healing: Patients typically recover within a few days.
* Tissue preservation: Healthy tissue is spared, promoting faster regeneration.
* High success rate: Studies show a 95% success rate in saving failing implants.
* Reduced risk of future complications: By addressing the underlying cause of peri-implantitis, LAPIP helps prevent future issues.
Who is a Candidate for LAPIP?
If you have an implant with signs of peri-implantitis, such as:
1. Bleeding gums around the implant
2. Redness or swelling
3. Loose implant
4. Pain or discomfort
5. Pus drainage
Then LAPIP might be a viable option. However, only a dentist can definitively assess your situation and determine if LAPIP is the best course of action.
Things to Consider:
Cost: LAPIP treatment can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
Availability: Not all dentists offer LAPIP, so finding a qualified practitioner is crucial.
Individual suitability: Not everyone is a candidate for LAPIP, and your dentist will consider your specific medical history and condition.
Conclusion:
LAPIP offers a promising solution for saving failing dental implants with a minimally invasive approach. If you're facing peri-implantitis, discussing LAPIP with your dentist can be a crucial step towards preserving your smile and enjoying the benefits of your implants for years to come. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are key to successful treatment. So, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist if you have any concerns about your implants.
If you are interested in Implants, LAPIP, or further education on Dental Health–contact your dentist’s office. There an entire staff is eager to help you, and they are uniquely qualified to assist for your particular conditions. They know your dental health better than you, and they will help you move forward with your plans for the future.