If you’ve been told you have gum disease, you might already know how overwhelming it can feel. The thought of painful surgery, long recovery times, and bleeding gums can make anyone hesitant to get help. But what if there were a gentler, faster, and more comfortable solution that could actually regrow healthy tissue instead of cutting it away?
At the office of Dr. David R. Scharf, a nationally recognized periodontist in Babylon, NY, that solution exists, and it’s called Laser Gum Therapy.
What Exactly Is Laser Gum Therapy?
Laser gum therapy (often referred to as LANAP®, or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a cutting-edge treatment that uses laser energy to target and remove bacteria and infected tissue beneath the gumline, without scalpels or sutures. The laser is so precise that it eliminates only diseased areas, leaving healthy gum and bone tissue intact.
This precision allows your body to naturally heal and regenerate new tissue, helping gums reattach to teeth and reducing the risk of future infection. For many patients, it means saving teeth that might otherwise be lost to gum disease.
Why Dr. Scharf Is Babylon’s Laser Gum Expert
Dr. David R. Scharf isn’t just a provider of LANAP, he’s one of the few instructors who teach other dentists how to perform it. Dr. Scharf’s extensive experience means you’ll get the most advanced level of care, with techniques that are proven to deliver long-lasting results.
At his state-of-the-art Babylon office, Dr. Scharf combines laser therapy with diagnostic imaging and perioscopy (a small dental camera) to ensure every trace of infection is addressed, making treatment safer and more effective than ever.
When Should You Consider Laser Gum Therapy?
Gum disease often starts silently, and by the time you notice symptoms, significant damage may already have occurred. You might be a candidate for laser gum therapy if you have:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
If you’ve been told you need gum surgery, laser therapy could be a far less invasive option.
Who Is, and Isn’t, a Candidate
Most people with mild to advanced gum disease can benefit from LANAP. It’s especially ideal for those who want to avoid the discomfort and downtime of traditional surgery. It’s also a great option for patients with medical conditions like diabetes or hemophilia that make surgery risky.
However, in cases of extreme bone loss or untreated systemic disease, laser therapy may not be enough on its own. Dr. Scharf will assess your specific situation and recommend the best treatment plan for your oral and overall health.
How Laser Gum Therapy Can Change Your Life
Laser gum therapy doesn’t just stop bleeding gums, it can dramatically improve your health and confidence. Here’s how:
- Healthier gums, stronger teeth: The laser removes infection and helps gums naturally reattach to your teeth.
- A fresher smile: By eliminating bacteria, the treatment helps reduce chronic bad breath and inflammation.
- Minimal pain and downtime: No scalpels, no stitches, and faster recovery mean you’ll be back to normal activities quickly.
- A confident new you: Healthier gums support your teeth, and your smile, for years to come.
Many patients report feeling better than they have in years after LANAP, both physically and emotionally.
What Does Laser Gum Therapy Cost?
Costs can vary depending on the severity of your gum disease and how many areas of your mouth require treatment. On average, laser gum therapy typically costs between $1,000 and $4,000 per quadrant, or $4,000 to $8,000 for the full mouth.
While some insurance plans may not list LANAP by name, they often cover a portion of the procedure under periodontal surgery codes. Dr. Scharf’s team will help you understand your benefits and payment options before treatment begins.
Recovery and What to Expect After Treatment
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the healing process is. After laser therapy, your gums will start to reattach and regenerate naturally. Mild tenderness or swelling may occur for a day or two, but it’s far less intense than traditional gum surgery.
You’ll want to:
- Stick to a soft-food diet for a few days
- Avoid brushing the treated area until your Dr. Scharf says it’s okay
- Keep up with regular checkups and cleanings to maintain your results
Within weeks, you’ll likely notice your gums look and feel healthier, and your smile more balanced.
FAQs About Laser Gum Therapy
Not usually! Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and any soreness afterward is mild and short-lived.
Most treatments take about two hours per session, and many patients only need one or two sessions total.
Usually not. Most people return to work and normal activities the next day.
As long as you maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the benefits can last for years — even decades.
Risks are minimal, but it’s important to have the treatment performed by a certified LANAP-trained periodontist like Dr. Scharf. Improper use of dental lasers by untrained practitioners can lead to ineffective or uneven results.
Your Health Starts with Healthy Gums
Gum disease isn’t just about your mouth, it’s linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. Taking care of your gums means taking care of your whole body.
If you’re tired of bleeding gums, bad breath, or the fear of losing teeth, laser gum therapy may be your path to a healthier, more confident smile.
Call Dr. David R. Scharf’s office in Babylon, NY or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation today. Your gums, and your future smile, will thank you.