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Ivanhoe Dental Group Offers Both Biolase and LANAP Laser Treatments

Ivanhoe Dental Group is the leading dental care provider in Riverdale, Illinois. Our team of experienced dentists, including Dr. Salem and Dr. Shah as well as Dr. Gurukkal, Arrietta and Dr. Bhullar, is committed to providing cutting-edge treatment that will ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health. Our advanced technology solutions include the LANAP procedure and Biolase technology. We will explain how these technologies can enhance your dental experience.

What is LANAP?

The LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is a major advancement in periodontal treatment. This FDA/ADA-approved treatment uses a laser to eliminate periodontal diseases without using traditional surgical instruments like scalpels or sutures. LANAP uses laser technology to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from below the gumline. Healthy tissue is minimally affected.


The LANAP treatment uses a specialized laser pulse that is specifically calibrated to target infected tissue. This laser vaporizes bacteria and diseased tissues without damaging the gums or teeth. LANAP is important because it promotes the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and can assist in reattaching gum tissues to root surfaces.

A woman is pointing at her teeth and smiling.

Ivanhoe Dental Group LANAP Procedure

  1. Pocket Depth: The first step is to measure the depth of periodontal pockets with a probe. This is useful in determining the extent of gum disease.
  2. Laser Therapy: The laser fiber is inserted into periodontal pockets and selectively removes the diseased tissue, killing harmful bacteria while leaving the healthy tissue intact.
  3. Removal of Calculus: After the diseased tissues have been removed, ultrasonic scalers or specialized hand tools are used to remove calculus from the root surfaces.
  4. Clot Stabilization: At the bottom of the pocket, the laser is again used to stimulate the soft tissues, roots, and bones, which promotes the proper clotting factors. This assists with reattachment by creating a stable environment.
  5. Tissue Compression: No sutures required. The tissue is pressed against the root surface of the tooth to ease attachment.
  6. Bite Adjustment: The dentist will use gentle techniques to adjust your bite which prevents excessive pressure on your teeth. This is especially important for those who have had LANAP treatment.

Why LANAP Is Available at Ivanhoe Dental Group

  • Minimally invasive: The LANAP protocol is less invasive and less painful than traditional gum surgery. This means a faster recovery.
  • Faster Recovery By patient reports, the recovery time following LANAP is shorter and more comfortable than with traditional methods.
  • Less Pain After Surgery: Because LANAP doesn't involve cutting the gums (which is what causes the pain), the pain after surgery is usually much less. Many patients only need over-the-counter pain relief.
  • Tissue Regeneration: The LANAP treatment not only eliminates the disease, but it also helps to regenerate damaged tissues and bones. This can help to save teeth that would otherwise have to be removed.
A woman is smiling while sitting in a dental chair.

Do You Have Any Questions?

Feel Free To Give Us A Call At (708) 849 8627

What is Biolase?

The Biolase system is a leading advancement in dental laser technology. It offers a variety of less invasive, and therefore more comfortable, treatments for patients. The core of Biolase technology is its ability to combine laser energy with water, a process called HydroPhotonics. This can be used to perform precise dental procedures without the heat, vibration, and pressure associated with other dental instruments.


Waterlase iPlus, a Biolase laser, uses this patented, unique combination of laser energy and water spray to perform a wide range of dental procedures in a way that is more comfortable on teeth, bones, and gums. The laser beam excites water molecules in the mouth to cut through soft or hard tissue while keeping the surrounding area cool and hydrated. The tissues are less damaged, which leads to faster healing and less discomfort.

A dentist is looking at an x-ray of a patient 's teeth.

Ivanhoe Dental Group Uses Biolase in Several Key Applications

  1. Cavity Preparation: By using Biolase, you can remove dental decay more efficiently and with less discomfort than traditional drills. You may not even need anesthesia.
  2. Bone and Gum Surgical Procedures The precision of the Biolase system allows for more precise contouring of bone and gum tissue without bleeding, which is typical in conventional surgery. This enhances cosmetic results and recovery time.
  3. Root Canal Therapy: The Biolase technology allows for more effective cleaning and disinfection, increasing the success rate of root canal treatments.
  4. Treatment for Periodontal Disease: Lasers can be used to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from periodontal pockets. This stimulates tissue regeneration without the use of surgery.

Why Ivanhoe Dental Group Offers Biolase

  • Reduced Pain: Many procedures performed with Biolase don't require anesthesia. This is particularly beneficial to patients who have a fear of needles or numbness.
  • Less Swelling and Bleeding: The Biolase laser's ability to coagulate the blood while it cuts soft tissue allows for more precise treatment and is less invasive, leading to reduced swelling and bleeding during and after procedures.
  • Preservation of Teeth: Biolase is a conservative option for treating cavities that helps to maintain the strength of natural teeth by reducing the amount of tooth material removed.
  • Faster Recovery: Because Biolase treatments are precise and minimally invasive, patients experience faster recovery time. This allows them to resume their daily activities sooner than traditional treatments.
A woman is sitting in a dental chair looking at her teeth in a mirror.

What Is the Difference Between LANAP and Biolase?

Our expert team, led by Dr. Salem and Dr. Shah will take you through a thorough evaluation process to determine whether LANAP, Biolase, or another treatment is right for you. How do we choose the best technology for you?

  1. Consultation: The journey begins with an in-depth discussion of your dental history, concerns, and goals. It is important to understand your dental health, as well as any specific issues. This will help us create the best treatment plan for you.
  2. Clinical Exam: Our dentists will conduct a comprehensive clinical examination to determine the health of your teeth and gums as well as the underlying bone structure.
  3. Treatment Expectations and Goals: When determining your treatment goals, we consider whether you are looking to improve gum health, treat decay, or enhance cosmetic appearance, and how quickly you would like to reach those goals.
  4. Discussion on Benefits and Suitability: Each technology has strengths. LANAP has a high level of effectiveness in treating periodontal diseases with little discomfort and minimal recovery time. This makes it ideal for patients who have gum problems. Biolase, on the other hand, excels at a wide range of dental procedures from decay removal to cosmetic shaping, offering a flexible solution that is often faster and less painful than traditional methods.
  • Medical History: Certain medical conditions may influence treatment choices. Patients with significant dental anxiety, or allergies, might be better off using Biolase treatments. These treatments are usually very gentle and do not require anesthesia.

Book Your Consultation Now

Are you ready to learn more about the advantages of laser dentistry? To schedule a consultation, contact Ivanhoe Dental Group, located in Riverdale, Illinois, and our team will guide you to the best treatment for you.


Ivanhoe Dental Group is the future of dental treatment. We are committed to your smile.

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