LAPIP

LAPIP (Laser Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure)

is a specialized dental treatment designed specifically to treat peri-implantitis—a form of gum disease that affects the area around a dental implant.

How the Procedure Works

The LAPIP protocol follows a minimally invasive “L.A.N.A.P. for implants” approach:

  1. Vaporization: A tiny laser fiber is inserted between the implant and the gum. The laser energy kills bacteria and vaporizes diseased tissue and toxins.
  2. Debridement: Ultrasonic scalers are used to clean the surface of the implant, removing any remaining tartar or biofilm.
  3. Blood Clot Stimulation: The laser is used a second time to stimulate the bone and soft tissue, creating a stable “fibrin clot.”
  4. Healing: This clot acts as a natural seal, allowing the body to reattach the gum tissue to the implant and potentially regenerate lost bone.

Key Benefits

  • Saves the Implant: It is often the last line of defense before an implant has to be completely removed.
  • Less Pain: Because there is no cutting or sewing, patients typically experience much less post-operative discomfort compared to traditional flap surgery.
  • Faster Recovery: Most people can return to their regular routine within 24 hours.
  • Precision: The laser distinguishes between healthy and diseased tissue, preserving the “gum line” and aesthetic appearance around the tooth.

Why It’s Used

Peri-implantitis can cause the bone supporting an implant to dissolve. If left untreated, the implant will become loose and fall out. LAPIP is unique because it is one of the only treatments that has shown the ability to facilitate bone regrowth around an existing implant.

Here is a visual demonstration of the LAPIP procedure for treating an infected dental implant.

1. Diagnosis & Probing

The dentist uses a probe to measure the depth of the pocket around the dental implant. The inflamed, red gum tissue indicates an infection (peri-implantitis).

2. Laser Decontamination

A special laser fiber is inserted between the implant and the gum. The laser light selectively destroys bacteria and diseased tissue without harming the implant’s surface or the healthy gum tissue.

Step 3: Clot Stimulation

After cleaning, the laser is used to stimulate the formation of a stable blood clot. This clot seals the pocket, protecting the treated area and creating a foundation for new bone and tissue to grow.

4. Healed Result

Over the following weeks, the body’s natural healing process, aided by the laser treatment, allows the gum tissue to reattach to the implant. The final result is healthy, pink, and firm gums, saving the implant.

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