LANAP vs. Biolase Laser

Biolase vs Lanap: Which Laser Gum Treatment Is Best For You ?

Our team at Starbrite Dental understands that gum disease and recession require minimally invasive, advanced treatments to achieve the best results. The two leading laser-assisted treatments, LANAP and Biolase Laser Therapy, provide modern solutions for gum health concerns. LANAP is the best option to maintain long-term gum health. This guide compares both treatments so that you can make an informed decision about your oral health.

Understanding Biolase Laser Therapy

Biolase Laser Therapy is a Soft Tissue Laser Treatment that can treat gum disease, contour the gum line, and perform other minimally invasive dental procedures. Biolase uses technology that combines air, water, and laser energy to treat soft tissues without cutting or using sutures.

Benefits of Biolase:

  • It is minimally invasive which reduces discomfort.
  • No need for scalpels or sutures
  • Multiple dental procedures can be performed, including gingival contouring and gum disease treatment.
  • Effective against mild to moderate gum disease.

The disadvantages of Biolase:

  • Biolase does not stimulate active bone or soft tissue repair.
  • You may need multiple sessions in order to get the best results.
  • Does not specifically treat advanced periodontal diseases.
  • It cannot reverse deep pocket periodontal in the same way LANAP.


Biolase can be a good option for maintaining general gum health, but it lacks LANAP's regenerative powers and effectiveness in treating mild-to-severe Periodontal Disease.


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Understanding LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

The LANAP treatment is FDA-cleared and designed to treat periodontal diseases and help stimulate gum regeneration. In contrast to Biolase, which only manages symptoms, LANAP eliminates infection and promotes bone growth.

The LANAP involves:

  1. Laser Energy that targets and eliminates harmful bacteria
  2. Stimulating growth factors that help regenerate lost bone and gum tissue
  3. Sealing periodontal pockets to prevent reinfection.
  4. Minimum discomfort without any cutting or stitching

Benefits of LANAP:

  • Targets periodontal diseases at their root causes.
  • Promotes gum and bone regeneration.
  • Long-term results, with reduced risk for reinfection.
  • Minimally invasive and causes little or no pain.
  • Faster recovery times in comparison to traditional gum surgery
  • Reduces the risk of bleeding and complications.

The disadvantages of LANAP

  • High initial costs, but cost-effective over the long term.
  • Requires specialized training and is only available in selected dental offices.


Biolase vs. LANAP: Key Comparisons

It is important to compare Biolase laser therapy with LANAP to determine how each treatment affects long-term dental health, healing time, and treatment effectiveness. LANAP's regenerative abilities and deeper bacterial removal make it a superior treatment for patients with periodontal diseases.

Effectiveness of Treatment for Gum Disease

The Biolase treatment is suitable for mild to moderate cases, while Lanap is designed for advanced periodontal diseases. It kills bacteria and stimulates bone and gum tissue regrowth, providing a long-term and comprehensive solution.

Bone Regeneration and Tissue Regeneration

One of the major differences between Biolase and LANAP is the ability of LANAP to regenerate gum and bone tissue. Since periodontal diseases can cause bone loss, LANAP is the superior option for patients who require both bacterial removal and tissue regeneration.

Durability and Long-Term Results

LANAP provides long-lasting results by tackling gum disease at the source. While the Biolase treatment may need to be repeated over time, LANAP usually only requires one or two sessions.

Comfort and Complexity of Procedure

Both are minimally invasive, but LANAP’s targeted laser approach provides minimal discomfort. LANAP is less invasive than Biolase and does not require the same number of sessions to achieve optimal outcomes. Patients will experience faster healing with LANAP.

Comparison Table


Features Biolase Laser Therapy LANAP
Primary Use Mild to moderate gum disease, gum reshaping Treatment for moderate-to-severe Periodontal Disease
Regenerative Properties No, It stimulates bone and gum regeneration
Procedure Invasiveness Minimum Invasive Minimum Invasive
Pain & Recovery Little pain, fast recovery Faster recovery with minimal pain
Long-Term Effectiveness Multiple sessions may be required Long-lasting Results
FDA Approved Periodontal Disease Treatment? No, Yes,
Treatments needed Maintenance sessions can be repeated Most sessions last 1-2 hours
Restoring Bone and Gum Health No Yes

LANAP offers superior results for advanced cases of periodontal diseases. It provides long-lasting and complete gum restoration.


Why LANAP is the Best Choice for Periodontal Health

If you have mild to moderate gum disease, LANAP will be the most effective solution available. Unlike Biolase, which only temporarily relieves gum inflammation, LANAP promotes new bone and gum tissue growth. This ensures a more long-term and comprehensive solution to your periodontal problems.


The LANAP is also ideal for:

  • Treating deep periodontal pockets, which traditional cleaning methods cannot remove.
  • Advanced gum recess caused by untreated gum disease.
  • Systemic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
  • Patients wanting a long-term, non-invasive treatment to avoid the risks associated with traditional gum surgery


We recommend Lanap over Biolase to patients who are looking for a periodontal solution that not only removes bacteria but also regenerates bone and tissue.

Schedule Your LANAP Consultation at Starbrite Dental

It's important to seek treatment if you experience gum disease symptoms such as bleeding or receding gums and persistent bad breath.


Starbrite Dental has a dental team that is highly trained to provide you with a stronger, healthier smile.


Schedule your consultation today to find out if LANAP is the best solution for you. Early treatment can help you save your teeth and your gums.



Contact Starbrite Dental today and start your journey to a healthier smile.


The Differences Between LANAP and Biolase Laser Treatments

  • 1. Primary Purpose

    • LANAP: Exclusively treats periodontal diseases. It's designed to remove infected tissues, reduce pocket depths, and regenerate bone and tissue due to gum disease.
    • Biolase: Has a wider range of uses, such as mild gum disease treatment and cavity preparation. It can also be used for cosmetic enhancements, like teeth whitening. It does not target advanced periodontal diseases.

  • 2. Technology Used

    • LANAP: Uses the PerioLase(r) MVP-7(tm) laser, a highly-specialized tool designed for periodontal treatment. This laser targets bacteria and diseased tissue while protecting healthy tissue.
    • Biolase: Uses Waterlase and Epic lasers. These are versatile instruments capable of performing soft tissue and hard tissue procedures. These lasers combine laser energy with water for enhanced precision and comfort.

  • 3. Procedure Details

    • LANAP: Laser is used to remove the infected tissue and clean the periodontal pocket. It also stimulates tissue regeneration. The laser seals off the treated area, reducing bleeding and the need for sutures.
    • Biolase: The procedure varies depending on the application. This water based laser is used to remove bacteria and unhealthy tissue from gums or teeth. This takes less time than other methods and has fewer restrictions after treatment. 

  • 4. Treatment Scope

    • LANAP is specifically designed to treat moderate to severe periodontal diseases. It targets the infection at its root and encourages the regeneration of bone and tissue.
    • Biolase: Best suited to early-stage gum disease, cosmetic and restorative treatments. It does not have the regenerative abilities of LANAP, but it excels in precision and versatility.

  • 5. Minimally Invasive Nature

    Both Biolase and LANAP are less invasive than traditional dental procedures. Biolase lasers, on the other hand, are used to treat less invasive procedures.

  • 6. Recovery Time

    • LANAP offers a rapid recovery period to most patients. Although full tissue regeneration can take time, most patients only experience minor discomfort and can resume daily activities in a few days.
    • Biolase lasers: The recovery depends on the procedure. Soft tissue treatments are often immediately recoverable, and there is little or no restriction after the procedure.

  • 7. Effectiveness

    • LANAP is highly effective in treating advanced gum disease. Clinical studies have shown significant improvements in gum health, pocket depths, and bone regeneration.
    • Biolase is effective for treating mild gum problems and improving cosmetic or restorative treatment. It is less efficient than LANAP in treating advanced periodontal diseases.

  • 8. Patient Comfort

    Both LANAP and Biolase treatments are designed to maximize patient comfort. They offer minimally invasive options that can be used in place of traditional methods. Lasers reduce pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Details of the LANAP and Biolase Lasers

Applications of LANAP

  • Treatment of moderate to severe periodontal diseases
  • Treat gum infection that can cause pockets to deepen
  • Bone and connective tissue regeneration
  • Preserves natural teeth
  • Associated with a reduced risk of tooth loss
Biolase Applications
  • Early-stage gum disease is treated
  • Cavity removal without drilling
  • Cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening
  • Soft tissue problems like gum reshaping
  • Supports restorative dentistry with improved precision
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Benefits and Limitations

  • The Advantages of LANAP

    • Treatment of Gum Disease: LANAP is a targeted treatment for periodontal disease that provides results that traditional surgery cannot achieve.
    • Regeneration Bone and Connective Tissue: The procedure stimulates the regrowth of bone and connective tissues, restoring gum function and health.
    • Minimized Pain: Patients experience less discomfort, bleeding, and swelling after recovery.
    • FDA Approved: The safety and effectiveness of LANAP has been evaluated and approved by the FDA.

  • Limitations of the LANAP

    • The primary focus of LANAP is periodontal treatment. It is not suitable for patients who do not have gum disease.
    • Due to its specialization, the cost of LANAP could be higher than other laser treatments or traditional gum surgery.

  • Benefits of Biolase

    1. Versatility: Biolase lasers are suitable for various dental procedures, including cavity removal and gum treatment.
    2. Immediate Results for Minor Issues: Biolase is an efficient and effective solution to early stage gum disease, cosmetic adjustments or other minor issues.
    3. Comfortable Procedures: The Biolase lasers are less invasive and provide a better experience for the patient.

  • Limitations of Biolase

    • Biolase is not designed to treat advanced periodontal disease
    • The results of Biolase may not last as long or be as regenerative.

What Patients Are Saying About StarBrite Dental

"I came here on a Thursday evening and everyone was very sweet and helpful. I got a root canal done with the endodontist Dr. Ali and it was very quick and easy. And even PAINLESS. 
The experience is very patient centered. They made sure to take care of me before my trip. Felt very taken care of here. Wish I had come here sooner!"
- Lea M.
★★★★★
"Dr. Ledoux had been excellent throughout my treatment here. I had to get a crown done and her gentle touch made it very easy. She is very caring. DR. Ali the root canal specialist calmed me down during my root canal procedure and the hygienist made everything wrap up with a wonderful cleaning"
- Ana A.
★★★★★
"Office is very quick and professional. I had a root canal today and I was very nervous going into it. We finished before I even realized what was going on. I think I had much more fear than pain. Dr. Ali was very reassuring and I can’t thank this office more for helping me with my dental care"
- Deborah J.
★★★★★

LANAP and Biolase Laser Treatments.

What Treatment Is Right For You?

  • LANAP is ideal for patients suffering from moderate to severe gum diseases. LANAP is a targeted, regenerative treatment ideal for patients with moderate to severe gum disease.
  • Biolase is best for patients who have early-stage gingivitis or are seeking cosmetic or restorative procedures. Biolase can be a great tool for minor dental issues and to enhance your smile.
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Why Choose Starbrite Dental for Your Dental Care?

We proudly offer our patients advanced laser treatments such as LANAP.  Why do patients choose us?



  • Expertise: Our dental staff is highly trained in the latest laser technology.
  • Comprehensive Dental Care: Our treatment plans are tailored to meet your immediate and long-term oral health needs.
  • The Latest Technology: We have the most up-to-date tools in our practice to ensure comfort, precision and efficiency.
  • Patient Centered Approach: Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities at every stage of your dental journey.

Book a Consultation Now

We can help if you are considering LANAP treatment. Starbrite Dental can help you schedule a consultation to learn how these innovative procedures will improve your gum health. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal dental wellness using the latest advances in dental care.

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Contact Us To Schedule An Appointment Today!

*We DO NOT ACCEPT HMO Insurance, State Insurance, Medicaid/Medicare, or discount plans. Fees apply for services. 

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Office (301) 770-1070

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(301) 377-2186

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(240) 832 1606

5936 Hubbard Dr, Rockville, MD 20852