Gum Disease & Lanap In Columbia, MD

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Gum Disease

Most people are aware that regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health. However, many may not fully understand the significance of these visits in both the short term and long term. Here's an overview of what routine dental care can do for your oral health.


Your mouth is a warm, moist environment continually exposed to nutrients from the food and drinks you consume. These factors create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Brushing your teeth helps remove these bacteria and the nutrients they feed on, but there are areas in your mouth where bacteria and tartar can still build up. Over time, this can lead to conditions like gingivitis, even with regular brushing and flossing. In some hard-to-reach areas, bacteria can thrive, leading to gum disease.

Comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment in Columbia, MD  –

$99 Exam & X-ray for New Patients

Most people have heard that they should visit their dentist every six months for examinations & deep dental cleanings in Columbia, MD. They may not understand the importance both to their short-term and long-term oral health. Here’s a quick look at what this regular schedule of care can do for you.


Your mouth is warm and moist and continually provided with nutrients as you eat and drink. All these qualities mean that bacteria find your mouth a hospitable place to grow. When you brush your teeth, you are clearing out nutrients and bacteria that have already grown. In some out-of-the-way locations, however, bacteria and tartar build-up will continue to grow, leading to conditions like gingivitis despite your best efforts. And even in areas you can clean, some gradual accumulation of bacteria will still occur.


What Causes Gingivitis?

Gum disease typically begins with the accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth. As this buildup extends beneath your gum line, it can lead to infection, which may require treatment to prevent further damage.


Several factors increase your risk of developing gum disease, including:

  • Improper brushing or flossing technique
  • Infrequent brushing or flossing
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Weakened immune system
  • Family history of gum issues
  • Hormonal changes
  • Impacted or partially-erupted teeth
  • Crooked teeth


Seeing a dental professional regularly is essential to treat gum disease before it causes irreversible damage to your gums and teeth. If you suspect you have gum disease, don't wait to address it. Call us at (410) 415-3473 to schedule your periodontal appointment at Smile Savers Dentistry in Columbia, MD.

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Patient Results With LANAP

How Do You Treat Gum Disease? 

Now that we’ve discussed what gum disease is and why it's crucial to treat it promptly, let’s explore the two primary methods for treating gum disease. At Smile Savers, we focus on the most advanced, effective treatment available—LANAP.

Traditional Periodontal Disease Treatments

Periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is a widespread issue, and historically, it was treated with antibiotics, deep cleanings, or even gum surgery. While these methods can be effective in treating the disease, some of them can be quite painful, often leading patients to delay or avoid treatment altogether. This, in turn, causes the disease to progress.

However, advancements in dental technology have transformed this approach. The introduction of LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) has revolutionized gum disease treatment, offering patients a less painful, highly effective alternative to traditional treatments.


About LANAP Gum Disease Treatment

Smile Savers Dentistry is proud to be one of the few practices in Columbia, MD, offering LANAP, an innovative, minimally invasive treatment for gum disease. The LANAP procedure uses cutting-edge laser technology to target and remove diseased tissue within the gum pockets, allowing healthy tissue to regenerate and reattach securely to the tooth surface.

Why choose LANAP?

  • Minimally invasive procedure with no need for stitches
  • Incredible precise laser technology for effective treatment
  • Faster healing time compared to traditional gum surgery
  • Stimulates the growth of new gum tissue and bone
  • Less bleeding and swelling, promoting smoother recovery
  • More comfortable than conventional treatments


This laser-based technique significantly reduces the trauma to your gums and allows for a quicker, more comfortable recovery than traditional gum surgery. If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, LANAP may be a great treatment option for you.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis


  • Symptoms of Gingivitis

    In the early stages, gingivitis typically does not cause pain, which makes it easy to overlook. You might only notice symptoms occasionally. The best way to identify gingivitis is through regular checkups with your dentist, who can spot the early signs of gum disease.


    Common symptoms of gingivitis include:


    • Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
    • Red, swollen, or tender gums
    • Gums that bleed for no apparent reason

    If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek treatment promptly. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that may require more intensive treatment.


  • When Gingivitis Becomes Periodontitis

    If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, which may require LANAP treatment. In periodontitis, inflammation becomes much more severe, and the gums start to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can thrive. These pockets deepen over time, and the bacteria can attack the bone supporting the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.


    Symptoms of periodontitis include:


    • Loose or lost teeth
    • Pain or tenderness in the gums
    • Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
    • Receding gums, making teeth appear longer
    • Persistent bad breath
    • Abscess formation between teeth and gums

    If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a periodontal treatment appointment as soon as possible to avoid further damage.


  • Symptoms of Periodontitis

    Since periodontitis is the more advanced form of gum disease, its symptoms are much more noticeable. These symptoms can include:


    • Loose or lost adult teeth
    • Sore, hot, swollen, or achy gums
    • Pain in your teeth or gums when chewing
    • Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks
    • Receding gums that make your teeth look longer
    • Pus forming in the pockets between your teeth and gum tissue
    • Persistent bad breath despite brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash

    If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to engage in dental laser assisted therapies for effective outcomes. Schedule a periodontal appointment right away at our dental office in Columbia, MD 21045. In some cases, your symptoms could indicate a dental emergency that needs to be handled fast to protect your smile. 


    Call us at (410) 730-6460 to schedule your appointment.

  • Health Risks of Untreated Periodontitis

    The consequences of untreated periodontitis extend beyond oral health. Research has shown that periodontal disease is linked to several serious health conditions, including:


    • Increased risk of heart disease (up to 3x higher)
    • Higher blood pressure
    • Inflammation throughout the body
    • Weakened immune system
    • Increased risk of oral cancer

    Treating gum disease early is not just important for your oral health; it’s also critical for your overall well-being. LANAP can help reduce the risk of complications associated with untreated gum disease.


  • Is There a Big Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

    Yes, the difference is significant.


    • Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is reversible with proper oral care, including professional cleanings.

    • Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that requires advanced treatment like LANAP to prevent permanent damage to the gums, teeth, and jawbone.
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Schedule Your Appointment Today!

If you're concerned about gum disease or have already been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, don’t wait to take action. The earlier you seek treatment, the easier it is to manage and prevent further damage. Smile Savers Dentistry offers advanced LANAP treatment to effectively treat gum disease with minimal discomfort and a faster recovery time compared to traditional methods.


Call us at (410) 730-6460 to schedule your appointment today. Our team is ready to provide you with the expert care you need to restore your gum health and achieve a healthier, more confident smile. Don’t put your oral health at risk/ Contact Smile Savers Dentistry today and take the first step toward a healthier mouth and overall well-being.

LANAP Frequently Asked Questions

Where Do I Find a LANAP Clinician?

  • Read Transcript here

    Summery (00:00):

    You cannot get the LANAP protocol at any dentist. There’s only certain of dentists who have been certified and have the precise laser, from Their Millenium Dental Technologies that can do the LANAP procedure. So many of you have searched for laser dentists in your area, LANAP laser is totally different. You must be certified and you must have the correct laser to do the LANAP procedure. So if you see “laser dentist”, you must ask if they’re laser certified using the LANAP procedure. Schedule your LANAP treatment today! Give us a call at Smile Savers.


    Note: we have no interest 3rd party financing services available for those who qualify.

What to Expect During LANAP

  • Read Transcript here

    Dr. Stewart (00:00):

    Many of you have had the alternatives. You’ve had the stitches, you’ve had the gum scraping, you’ve had the cutting. You’re not going to have this today. You’ll come in, we’ll anesthetize you, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable, we’ll do the procedure and it’ll last about an hour and a half. Is it going to be painful? No. The thing you have to worry about is getting fully hydrated. Make sure you eat before you come in. But when you come in, what we’ll do is make sure you’re very comfortable. We’ll get you anesthetized in the areas we’re going to work on so that you don’t feel a thing. What we’re going to do is we’re going to use this laser below the gum line. You probably won’t even know we’re using it on you. After we use the laser on you we’re going to clean your teeth really well with an ultrasonic. And during the procedure, when we use the laser you’re probably not even going to know that we’re using the laser. It’s literally that simple. I know you’re scared, I know you’re nervous but it’s not that big of a deal. When you leave you’re not going to be in pain. We’re not going to cut your gums, we’re not going to give you stitches. You’re going to go home. You’re going to have no gauze in your mouth, and you’ll be able to just relax when you get home.



LANAP and Invisalign

  • Read Transcript here

    Summary (00:00):

    Many of you don’t know that not only is gum disease a bacteria problem, it’s also a bite problem. 50% of the depth of the pocket is caused by your bite. And if you can think about a tooth getting bang, bang, bang, all the time, it’s going make the pockets get deeper around your teeth. So it’s not just bacteria. The laser will go down and remove the bacteria, but it also gets the bone to grow. If the bone can’t grow because you’re banging your teeth or your teeth are in the wrong position, then the pockets will never get better. So as a part of LANAP, most of my patients or all of my patients are either going to have their teeth adjusted by lightly polishing edges like fingernails. Or you’re going to get a night guard so that nighttime you’re not banging your teeth while you’re healing. There are other people that even need more treatment which is what I love doing is Invisalign. Invisalign will help move your teeth into the right position. So while you’re healing, they’re not getting banged on.


    Note: we have no interest 3rd party financing services available for those who qualify.

Who Can Benefit From LANAP?

  • Read Transcript here

    Dr. Stewart (00:00):

    Have you been told that you’re going to lose your teeth, or you have bad gum disease, or you have gum disease? You’ve been to the periodontist every three months, you’ve had your teeth cleaned every three months, but if feels like nothing’s happening, nothing’s changing. Well, you could be a candidate for LANAP. I’ve had many patients that have wondered if they can benefit from LANAP. Really, what I have found is you have to have deep pockets around your gum. And usually, when you have deep pockets you have bad breath, you have bleeding gums, you have loose teeth, and you’ve had scaling and root planing if you know what that, have heard that before. Usually the patients that I see that need LANAP are those are having a hard time keeping their teeth clean. If you can’t keep your teeth clean, then you have deep pockets around your teeth. So you would be a great candidate for LANAP because what LANAP does is it makes the pockets smaller so that you can keep your teeth clean and you can keep your teeth longer. So what is the best part about LANAP? It’s gentle, for people that have beginning gum disease, or people that have progressive gum disease or those that have really complicated gum disease, it works for all of you. So if you have a question and you think that you may be a candidate give us a call and I’d be happy to do a consultation with you and show you if LANAP will benefit you.


What is the cost of LANAP?

  • Read Transcript here

    Summer (00:00):

    The cost of LANAP, it depends on the severity of your disease. So we like to get you in, do an evaluation, and then give you a cost of what it would be for you. 


    Insurance usually will cover a portion of it up to your yearly max, so if your yearly max is a thousand, then they'll cover up to that thousand dollars. The absolute. 


    We have several payment plans anywhere from 12 months with no interest to extended plans with interest to make affordable payments for you.


    Note: we have no interest 3rd party financing services available for those who qualify.

Common Questions About LANAP

  • Read Transcript here

    Dr. Stewart (00:00):

    It's pretty amazing. The laser has been made so that it'll actually go after the bacteria in the pocket and it's specific to the type of bacteria that caused gum disease. So when you use that laser, it literally will sterilize around the pocket and kill the bacteria. That's how it works. 


    It also uses the light of the laser to actually energize the bone and the hi the tissue that heals and it allows it to heal faster. If you don't do lan nap treatment, you most likely will lose your teeth because if you're coming to see me for LANAP, you usually are pretty advanced and you don't have much time left. So I usually find if you don't do anything, you're gonna lose your teeth. In most cases it will. 


    through the years of doing this, we've had really excellent results. Sometimes you'll lose a few just because they're so badly damaged, but the majority of them you'll be able to save. 


    (00:53)

    the LANAP is a lot different cuz we use a laser to do a lot of our procedure and the laser is so small that very nice to the gums. We don't have to use scalpels and, and sutures to hold everything together. When we're finished, we actually just use the laser and it'll actually heal it on its own. 


    Well, if you file a protocol that you've been, you'll be taught after you do the procedure, is you shouldn't have to have it done again. In some rare cases, you may have to, you might have to go back in and to retreat using LANAP near certain sites, but a majority of the patients that I've seen haven't needed to have that done afterwards. Usually it depends on how much is needed, but normally if it's your full mouth, we do two parts, one half of the mouth one day and the other half the other day. 


    (01:39)

    And it's usually about a hour and a half. Oh yeah.  it's like a normal dental procedure where you would have anesthetic, you would be totally fine after you're finished. It's about an hour and a half appointment, so you might be a little tired, but you should be totally fine. 


    And again, drive yourself an It does. it depends on if you want me to write you a note and get outta work. No, just  the amazing thing about it is it seems like a very complicated procedure, but actually for you can go home, you can have a normal day, you can go right to work. You may be anesthetized so you make people make, may make fun of you, but outside of that you should be totally fine. Go back to work, resume most of your normal routine. 


    Actually it's really amazing considering what we're doing for you and the surgery that we do. You won't have much pain at all. Some people may need a Motrin afterwards or an ibuprofen, but most cases people are like, call me the next day asking when am I gonna be in pain? And they aren't. That's the pretty neat thing about it.



  • Do I need LANAP?

     A thorough exam is required to determine if you qualify for LANAP, as the severity of gum disease varies from person to person.

  • Will my insurance cover LANAP?

     Insurance coverage depends on your plan, past treatments, and benefits. It’s best to consult with your insurance provider for specific details.

  • What is gingivitis?

     Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which affects the supporting tissues and bones.

  • What are the early signs of gingivitis?

     Look for swollen, red gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, bad breath, or gum recession. If these symptoms appear, schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel for early treatment.


  • What are the risks of gingivitis?

    This condition may cause discomfort, such as bleeding or swelling, but it is not harmful. Gingivitis, if left untreated can lead to more serious forms of gum disease, like Periodontitis. This can cause tooth decay and other dental problems.


    Researchers have also found that gum disease can be linked to other health conditions such as stroke, diabetes or heart disease. The exact cause of gum inflammation is not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that systemic inflammation can increase the risk for other health problems.


    To maintain good health, it is important to treat gingivitis promptly to prevent it from progressing to more severe forms. This can be achieved with good oral hygiene. Regular dental cleanings and checkups are important, as is brushing and flossing.


  • Can you have both periodontitis AND gingivitis?

     Yes, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. If untreated, gingivitis may progress into more severe gum disease requiring advanced treatment like LANAP.

  • How do dentists treat gingivitis?

     Treatment includes professional cleaning, improved oral hygiene, and possibly antibiotics to remove bacteria and prevent the disease from advancing.


  • How long does it take for gingivitis to heal?

     With proper care, gingivitis can heal within a few weeks. Regular dental cleanings and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking may help speed up the process.

  • What is Periodontal Disease (PD)?

     Periodontal disease, or gum disease, affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, causing severe damage to oral health if untreated.

  • What are the symptoms and signs of periodontal disease?

     Signs include swollen, bleeding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and receding gums. If left untreated, periodontitis can cause tooth loss.

  • What other diseases can be associated with periodontal infection?

    Periodontal disease has been linked to other health conditions. Periodontal diseases has been associated with other health conditions.

    1. Periodontal disease may increase your risk of heart disease.
    2. Diabetes: Diabetics are more susceptible to infections, including gum disease. If blood sugar levels aren't well controlled, gum disease may be harder to treat.
    3. Pregnancy complications. Women with periodontal disease may be more susceptible to premature births or low birth weight.
    4. Rheumatoid Arthritis - Although this connection is not yet fully understood, it may exist a link between gum disease and the rheumatoid.

    It is difficult to understand the relationship between gum disease and other conditions. Regular dental cleanings, checkups and brushing and flossing can help reduce the risk of gum disease.


  • Can periodontal disease be cured?

     Periodontal disease cannot be fully cured, but it can be managed with treatments like scaling, root planing, and LANAP. Regular care and maintenance are essential to control the disease.

  • What are the treatments for periodontal disease?

    Treatment options can be affected by the severity of gum or periodontal disease. The treatment may involve a combination of in-office procedures and at-home care.


    There are several treatments for gum disease.


    1. Professional dental cleaning. Professional dental cleaning is recommended in the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis). This will remove plaque and tartar, and improve the health of the gums.
    2. This deep cleaning technique is used in cases of advanced gum diseases (periodontitis) to remove plaque, calculus and tartar from below the gum line. This involves removing plaque, tartar and calculus from beneath the gum line.
    3. Periodontal Surgery is required in certain situations to remove damaged tissue or recontour the gums to reduce the depth of periodontal pockets and improve their health.
    4. Bone and Tissue Grafts: In cases of severe gum disease, it is often necessary to perform bone and tissue grafts in order to replace the lost tissue and bone. These grafts also help to improve the stability and strength of teeth.
    5. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections that can cause gum disease.

    You can treat gum disease at home with improved oral hygiene including brushing, flossing and antiseptic mouthwash.

    It is essential to work closely with Dr. Patel or a  periodontist to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. To manage gum disease, it is important to have regular dental cleanings.


  • Does periodontal treatment and tooth cleaning hurt?

    Some patients may experience discomfort during and after the procedure, even though teeth cleanings and periodontal treatments are not supposed to cause pain. The level of discomfort you experience will depend on the severity of your gum disease and what treatment you receive.


    Using special tools, the dentist or dental hygiene will remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums during a professional cleaning. This procedure can cause some discomfort, especially if your gums or teeth are sensitive.


    For more advanced gum disease, like periodontitis, periodontal surgery or scaling and root planning may be needed. These procedures can be uncomfortable and cause sensitivity during and after the procedure. Anesthesia can minimize discomfort.

    It's vital that you tell Dr. Patel if you are experiencing any discomfort. Dr. Patel can adjust treatment to reduce discomfort.


  • When should I schedule an appointment with my dentist if I suspect I may have gingivitis?

     If you notice bleeding gums, swelling, bad breath, or gum recession, schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel right away to prevent the disease from progressing into periodontitis.

  • Does periodontal treatment hurt?

     While most treatments aren’t painful, you may experience some discomfort, especially with advanced treatments like scaling or LANAP. Anesthesia is available to minimize discomfort.

Why Choose Smile Savers for Gum Disease Treatment with LANAP?

Dr. Daniel Stewart founded Smile Savers to offer one-of-a-kind service to our neighbors in Columbia, MD, and the surrounding communities. Whether you need gum disease treatment, dental implants, or a simple cleaning, our caring team will be here for you every step of the way. 


It’s because Doctor Stewart cares about your comfort and oral health that he invested in the LANAP machine for treating gum disease. For over 30 years, our mission has been to provide the best dental care in Maryland, and we work hard for you to live up to that ideal. 


If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, call Smile Savers to schedule an appointment with our experts. You deserve a healthy smile, and we’ll help you achieve it!


Call us at (410) 730-6460 today.

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Smile Savers is accepting new patients however, we DO NOT accept HMO's, Medicaid, or other State Insurance Programs. If you require financial assistance please contact our office regarding our membership plan and financing options.

Gum Disease & LANAP