The two leading types of lasers in Dentistry today are the Biolase laser and the and the LANAP that make one more beneficial than the other, depending on LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure). While practitioners claim successful results using either type, there are differences between the Biolase laser the type of patient, the procedure and the practitioner.
A main difference between the Biolase and LANAP is the type of wavelength that each emits. The Biolase laser utilizes a combination of deionized water and Erbium Chromium YSGG (Yttrium Scandium Gallium Garnet). The LANAP uses a YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet) laser. The term “laser” itself stands for “light amplified by stimulated emission of radiation.” People are surprised to learn that treatment plans can differ based on the wavelength of the laser.
The wavelength of the Biolase laser absorbs into a wider variety of surfaces in and around the mouth, and it can be used for both hard and soft tissue. For example, the Biolase laser can incise soft tissue as well as bone. By manipulating combinations of water, air, and laser energy, Biolase can be used both to treat gum disease and bone, and perform minimally invasive procedures with minimal pain, discomfort, or bleeding.
One of the goals of the American Academy of Periodontology is to achieve periodontal health in the least invasive, most cost-saving manner; the Biolase laser fulfills both. With the Biolase laser there is little to no bleeding, and procedures are seamless and efficient. Moreover, the laser can be used to effectively sterilize and treat problematic area without heat or the risk of contamination.
The Biolase laser can modify root surfaces in a manner that promotes attachment of connective tissue cells, which are involved in the growth of collagen and fibers. The Biolase laser also promotes bone growth because the laser effects the release of growth factors and regulatory proteins. Another positive is the Biolase laser has a “bactericidal” effect i.e., the agent responsible for killing bacterial growth.
On the other hand, LANAP’s shorter wavelength limits its use to soft tissue. The LANAP laser kills pathogenic bacteria and removes select diseased tissue. And like the Biolase laser, no cutting is required, and healing time is quick. LANAP can sterilize some compromised areas but it does not eliminate the calculus in the hard-to-get areas, which does not completely eliminate the etiology. Lastly, the LANAP has potential to cause thermal damage to root surfaces and bone.
At Mortellaro Periodontics, we strive to offer effective treatment that provides optimal lasting results to our patient family. While both the LANAP and Biolase have benefits for the patient, the Biolase laser gives us the versatility and flexibility to treat more comprehensively, to perform both hard tissue and soft tissue procedures. Moreover, patient comfort, successful treatment of periodontal disease, and the variety of procedures that this laser can implement makes Biolase the ideal choice to treat our patients.