LAPIP – Laser Assisted Perio-Implant Procedure

The last 20 years has seen a revolution in dentistry, especially in the field of Dental Implants. Gone are the days where patients have to suffer with loose fitting dentures, and removable partials that cause damage to adjacent teeth. Dental Implants are here to stay and are overwhelmingly successful when placed and restored by experienced Dentists and Dental Surgeons.

Dental implants are a very credible way to replace missing teeth, but due to the fact more and more implants have been placed, we are seeing more and more complications with implants. This is a condition we call “Peri-Implantitis”. Like natural teeth, the hard and soft tissues around implants can get infected under the gum line, which can result in bone loss around the implant, and in some cases loss of the implant itself. Complications can be due to inadequate home care, inadequate maintenance, systemic disease and some medications can contribute to implant failure.  

Until recently, the only treatment for an “ailing” implant was either extensive surgical repair or removal of the implant, repair and regeneration of the space, and waiting for a new one to be placed.

With the advent of LAPIP, which is a specific laser surgery procedure (does not involve a scalpel or stitches), we are able to treat the infections and arrest the disease, and in some cases regenerate new bone around the implant itself!

LAPIP — which stands for Laser Assisted Peri-Implant Procedure, is the only FDA cleared laser procedure to treat ailing dental implants.