Dr. Alexander Lezhansky DDS Explains the LAPIP

Dr. Alexander Lezhansky DDS Explains the LAPIP

Peri-implantitis is caused by bacteria and can be treated with Laser-Assisted Peri-Implantitis Procedure (LAPIP) without the need to remove the dental implant.

Just as bacteria can cause periodontal disease, it can cause an infection and bone loss around a dental implant, which is one reason why good oral hygiene is important. Implants are not natural teeth, but they reside among organisms and can become infected just like natural teeth.

The traditional way of addressing this infected implant is to remove it surgically. The protocol is to remove the implant, followed by bone grafting that requires six to eight months of healing before another implant can be placed.

With LAPIP infection and inflammation around the implant can be removed while the implant remains in place. This procedure allows healthy bone to grow back around the implant and it becomes more stable while the area heals. We save the implant and disinfect the area at the same time.

We use LAPIP when an implant is failing. One indication that the implant is failing is when it is moveable. Instead of removing the implant, if it is moveable we try to do LAPIP first to kill the bacteria and save the implant. Peri-implantitis is often caused by dental cement being left behind in the gum tissues around the implant. If we catch the inflammation at an early stage, we use the LAPIP to disinfect the area. We clean out the cement that is causing this inflammation and infection and seal up the area using the LAPIP.

Whether we can save the implant or not, by using LAPIP we are creating a healthy bone environment. Patients who have the LAPIP are much better off simply because they will have a stronger, healthier bone structure afterward and very good long-term prognosis for their dental implants.

Dr. Alexander Lezhansky

Bright Smile Design Dental

Office in Manhattan and Brooklyn

New Patients Welcome