What to Expect After LANAP: Post-Treatment Care and Recovery in San Clemente
Recovering from LANAP laser periodontal treatment doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Wright Perio & Implants in San Clemente, our dental team is here to make sure your healing process is just as comfortable and successful as the procedure itself. Whether you’ve just undergone treatment or are preparing for your first visit, understanding LANAP aftercare is essential to protecting your results and restoring your gum health.
Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr., a board-certified periodontist, leads our San Clemente periodontist’s office with years of experience in laser dentistry and minimally invasive periodontal treatment. Patients trust Wright Perio & Implants not only for cutting-edge technology like the PerioLase® MVP-7™ but also for personalized care that supports your recovery every step of the way. Call (949) 361-4867 to speak with our team about your post-LANAP needs.
What to Expect Right After Your LANAP Procedure
After LANAP treatment, it’s normal to experience some minor swelling, soreness, or slight bleeding around the gums. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. Our San Clemente periodontist will provide specific post-op instructions tailored to your needs, but generally, most patients find recovery far easier than traditional gum surgery.
Unlike conventional flap surgery, LANAP requires no cutting or sutures. This means less discomfort, minimal downtime, and a quicker return to normal activities. At Wright Perio & Implants, the goal is to get you back to daily life with healthier gums and a confident smile.
Tips for a Comfortable Recovery
Proper LANAP aftercare supports healing and prevents complications. Follow these steps to protect your gums during recovery:
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days
- Avoid brushing or flossing the treated area immediately after the procedure
- Use an antimicrobial rinse as prescribed
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products, as they slow healing
- Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated
You may be asked to return for a follow-up appointment within the week so our San Clemente periodontists near you can assess your healing and make adjustments as needed.
If you’re looking for a dental office near you that provides advanced periodontal care, our San Clemente dental practice is fully equipped to support your post-procedure journey. Call (949) 361-4867 for personalized guidance.
Diet Guidelines During Recovery
Soft foods are key to protecting the treated area during the first few days after your LANAP procedure. Try options like mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, smoothies, or broths. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods that could irritate the gums.
Eating soft, nutritious meals helps fuel the body’s natural healing process and prevents unnecessary stress on your gums. Over time, you can gradually return to your normal diet, but it’s important to listen to your dentist’s specific instructions and avoid anything that could cause discomfort.
Activities to Avoid After LANAP
Give your body time to heal. Avoid heavy exercise, bending over, or lifting heavy objects for the first 48 hours. These actions can increase blood flow to the head and may lead to bleeding at the treated site.
Also, avoid using straws, vigorously rinsing your mouth, or drinking carbonated beverages during the first few days. Our dental practice in San Clemente will provide more detailed restrictions based on your specific case.
Looking for an experienced periodontist near you to help guide your recovery? Call (949) 361-4867 for professional LANAP aftercare.
Oral Hygiene During LANAP Healing
While you won’t brush or floss directly around the treated area right away, maintaining good oral hygiene is still important. You’ll likely be given a prescription antimicrobial rinse to use instead of brushing. This helps keep the area clean without disturbing the healing tissue.
Once healing progresses, our San Clemente periodontist will let you know when and how to reintroduce brushing and flossing. Wright Perio & Implants will guide you every step of the way to ensure your gum tissue remains clean and infection-free.
Signs of Successful Healing
Recovery time varies, but most patients begin to see improved gum health within weeks. Some signs your LANAP procedure is healing well include:
- Reduced gum bleeding
- Less inflammation or swelling
- Improved gum color and texture
- Tighter gum pockets on follow-up exams
Wright Perio & Implants uses follow-up visits and periodontal charting to track your healing and ensure that your gums are regenerating properly. If anything feels off during recovery, don’t hesitate to call (949) 361-4867 to schedule a check-up.
Long-Term Care After LANAP
LANAP isn’t a one-and-done solution. Long-term periodontal health depends on consistent aftercare, regular maintenance visits, and strong home hygiene habits. Our San Clemente periodontist’s office typically recommends:
- Periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months
- A soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Using a water flosser if recommended
- Avoiding smoking and managing any contributing health issues
By following your custom care plan, you can preserve the results of your LANAP treatment and keep gum disease from returning.
Emotional Support During Recovery
Healing from gum disease can take more than physical aftercare—it often comes with emotional stress. Whether you’re dealing with dental anxiety or navigating a new hygiene routine, it’s normal to feel uncertain. At Wright Perio & Implants, our compassionate care team offers ongoing encouragement and education to make sure you feel empowered, informed, and supported throughout your recovery.
You don’t have to face this process alone. Let our San Clemente periodontist near you help you feel confident in your healing and future oral health.
When to Call Dr. Wright
If you experience unusual symptoms like persistent bleeding, severe pain, swelling that worsens over time, or signs of infection (such as pus or fever), contact Wright Perio & Implants immediately. LANAP recovery is usually smooth, but catching complications early is essential for a successful outcome.
You can always reach our dentist’s office in San Clemente at (949) 361-4867. Whether it’s a quick question or a follow-up concern, our periodontal care team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients recover in 1 to 2 weeks, though minor soreness may last longer. Final healing and gum regeneration continue over several months.
Soft foods are recommended for the first few days. Gradually return to your regular diet based on your dentist’s guidance.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually enough. Always follow the post-op instructions from our San Clemente office.
LANAP can stop the progression of gum disease and encourage regeneration, but maintenance is essential to prevent recurrence.
Call Today for LANAP Aftercare in San Clemente
From your first consultation to your last follow-up, Wright Perio & Implants is committed to helping you heal, thrive, and protect your smile long-term. Our San Clemente periodontist’s office offers leading-edge laser technology, compassionate care, and a dedicated periodontal team that puts your comfort first.
If you have questions about LANAP recovery or need personalized aftercare guidance, call (949) 361-4867 to speak with our San Clemente dental team today. We’re proud to be the dentist’s office near you that you can trust with every stage of your gum health journey.