LANAP™ Post-Operative Instructions

  • Anti-microbial rinses and antibiotic medications may be prescribed for you. Take any prescribed medications according to directions and continue taking until all meds are gone.
  • Reduce physical activity for several hours following surgery.
  • Periodontal laser procedures usually result in minor discomfort following surgery.
  • For the first 5 days immediately following surgery, take the prescribed medications which typically will include an antiinflammatory and antibiotic.
  • Carefully avoid chewing food in the areas of the mouth where the laser has been used for at least one week following surgery. One of the most important results of laser surgery is the blood clots that form following surgery. It is extremely important not to dislodge the tiny clots that form in and around the gums.
  • Do not be alarmed with any color changes or appearance of tissues following laser therapy.  Tissues can be gray, yellow, red, blue, purple, “stringy” and reflect normal response to laser treatments.
  • It is OK to rinse, and wash your mouth on the first day.  Rinse as directed with warm salt rinses or any of your favorite rinses morning and night.  In between, it is OK to rinse gently every three (3) hours with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8oz. glass of warm water).  Do not brush your teeth in the area of the surgery until instructed to do so but flossing gently is recommended (see Treatment and Home Care sequence sheet).
  • Try to keep your mouth as clean as possible in order to help the healing process.  Brush, floss, and follow other home care measures in all the areas of your mouth except for the surgery area.
  • Do not apply excessive tongue or cheek pressure to the surgery area.

Do not be alarmed if one of the following occurs:

  • Light bleeding
  • Slight swelling
  • Some soreness, tenderness, or tooth sensitivity

Please call the office at North Andover Office Phone Number 978-975-1233 if you are experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • Prolonged or severe pain
  • Prolonged or excessive bleeding
  • Considerably elevated or persistent temperature

Do not be alarmed that beginning within two weeks after therapy and extending as long as one year or more, the teeth may become slightly sore, tender, or sensitive to cold as the bone and ligaments around the teeth regenerate and become more firm.  This is a sign of healing, but may also indicate the presence of a bite imbalance that may need to be adjusted.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us! North Andover Office Phone Number 978-975-1233