When it comes to treating gum disease, many patients are now opting for a less invasive and
more advanced approach called LANAP® therapy. LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment
Procedure) uses laser technology to treat periodontal disease, offering a faster recovery and
better long-term results compared to traditional methods. But what about the cost? Let’s break it
down for you!
LANAP Therapy Costs at Northern Virginia Periodontics:
- Full Mouth LANAP: $12,175.00
This involves treating the entire mouth with LANAP, addressing all areas affected by gum
disease. - LANAP for 1-3 teeth (D4261): $3,244.00
If only a few teeth are impacted by periodontal disease, this option covers treatment for 1-3
teeth. - LANAP by quadrant (D4260): $3,607.00 per quadrant
This cost applies to treating one quadrant (one-fourth) of the mouth. Depending on the severity
of your gum disease, you may need multiple quadrants treated.
Understanding the Coding
While LANAP® therapy uses advanced laser technology, the coding for insurance purposes is
the same as traditional osseous surgery (D4260/D4261). This is because, technically, the
LANAP procedure involves a similar approach to osseous surgery, where the gum tissue is
"flapped" back to access the infected area. However, the key difference is that LANAP doesn’t
require actual cutting or stitching, making it much less invasive.
Does Dental Insurance Cover LANAP?
Yes, dental insurance can help cover some of the costs associated with LANAP, however it is
highly dependent on your insurance coverage.
Our incredible treatment coordinators at Northern Virginia Periodontics can help you receive the
periodontal services you need, whether by verifying coverage with your insurance provider
during our periodontal consultation so you have a clear idea of your out-of-pocket expense or
discussing third-party financing options. Our goal is to make this experience as stress-free as
possible for you.
LANAP vs. Traditional Osseous Surgery: Cost & Benefits
One of the significant advantages of LANAP over traditional osseous surgery is that it tends to
be cheaper while offering comparable—if not better—results. Traditional surgery typically
involves more downtime, discomfort, and a longer healing process, all of which can add to the
total cost in terms of both time and money. That said, there are instances where traditional
surgery is still indicated, for a variety of reasons. This is where our experienced periodontists
advise you as to what the very best treatment strategy is for your specific condition.
Why Choose LANAP?
- Less invasive: No cutting or stitching, leading to faster recovery.
- Cost-effective: LANAP costs less than traditional osseous surgery, offering financial relief
along with advanced treatment. - Improved comfort: Less pain and fewer post-operative complications.
Final Thoughts
LANAP therapy is an excellent choice for treating gum disease with a modern, minimally
invasive approach. While the costs may seem high, the comfort, recovery, and overall health
benefits make it a worthwhile investment for many patients. If you’re dealing with periodontal
disease, call Northern Virginia Periodontics to discuss if LANAP could be right for you!
Dr. A. Garrett Gouldin is a periodontist specializing in dental implant techniques. He is certified in the S.M.A.R.T. Minimally Invasive Bone Grafting Procedure, the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®), and the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. Dr. Gouldin is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the Virginia Dental Association and the American College of Dentists. He co-founded several study clubs and serves on the executive board of the Northern Virginia Dental Society. He was recognized as a top periodontist on several occasions.