What Patients Really Want to Know About Laser Gum Disease Treatment
Thursday August 6, 2026
Hearing “gum disease” from your dentist can already feel like a life sentence. Then, add the word “surgery” to that? It’s probably not been one of your all-time favorite days. But Dr. Spencer Hoyt at Fort Worth Dental Arts has an option that is a great fit for many folks who have heard those dreaded words. Laser gum disease treatment with the LANAP protocol.
How Do I Know if I Have Gum Disease and Need Treatment?
Gum disease doesn’t always present with symptoms. It develops slowly and isn’t usually painful until the late stages. Dr. Hoyt will have to diagnose you to know for sure. He’ll do things like measure the pockets of your teeth and take X-rays. But if you have any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to get checked ASAP:
- Gums bleed when you brush your teeth
- Your gums are red or swollen
- Pulling away from your teeth
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Bad breath
- Teeth feeling loose
Catching gum disease early gives you a better chance at treatment.
What Is Laser Gum Disease Treatment and the LANAP Protocol?
In treatment for gum disease, a specialized laser removes diseased tissue, plus the bacteria around your teeth. The goal is to try to preserve as much of your healthy gum and bone as possible.
LANAP is an acronym for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It’s a protocol-based therapy for gum disease, and it’s done in a very specific sequence of steps. The laser helps remove diseased tissue without damaging healthy tissue.
Does LANAP Hurt?
Dr. Hoyt uses local anesthesia to get you numbed up before your LANAP treatment. You’ll probably feel some pressure, but no sharp pain. Once the anesthetic wears off, you might be slightly sore or tender.
Is Laser Gum Disease Treatment Safe?
As long as the treatment is being done by a trained professional like Dr. Hoyt, this treatment is completely safe. Also, the LANAP protocol is FDA-cleared for treating moderate to severe periodontitis.
What Is Recovery Like After LANAP?
Recovery is different for everyone. Your gums will be healing, so eat soft foods on the side that was treated, and don’t chew directly on that area until you’re cleared by Dr. Hoyt. You’ll also need to do modified brushing and flossing so you don’t disturb that tissue. Just be sure to keep following the post-op instructions Dr. Hoyt’s team gives you.
Am I a Good Candidate for LANAP?
Only Dr. Hoyt can make that decision. LANAP tends to be a good fit for you if you:
- Have moderate to advanced gum disease.
- Want a solution less invasive than traditional surgery for gum disease
- Have deep periodontal pockets
Dr. Hoyt will also take your overall health into account, including existing medical conditions. And if you smoke, it may not be your best option.
How Can I Learn More About Laser Gum Disease Treatment in Fort Worth, TX?
Dr. Spencer Hoyt at Fort Worth Dental Arts will sit down with you to go over everything you’ve got going on in your mouth. To see what he thinks about you and the LANAP protocol, call to set up an appointment with him at 2421 W 7th St 103, Fort Worth, TX 76107.
