“Laser dentistry” gets marketed broadly across the Upper West Side, but the specific equipment behind it matters. At Dental West NYC, our laser treatment is performed with the PerioLase MVP-7, the only FDA-cleared device for LANAP, a laser-assisted procedure that regenerates bone and gum attachment lost to gum disease, rather than just cutting or disinfecting tissue.
We’re a direct ride from Morningside Heights: one stop on the 1 train from 116th Street–Columbia University to 59th Street–Columbus Circle, about 15 minutes with no transfer, right to our Central Park West office.
What Is Laser Dentistry?
Laser dentistry uses focused light energy instead of a scalpel or drill for certain soft-tissue and periodontal procedures. Depending on the laser and technique, it can mean less bleeding, more precision, and in some cases faster healing than traditional instruments, but the specific laser and protocol used determines what’s actually possible. Some of our laser applications are everyday, non-surgical additions to routine care, such as pocket disinfection or gum recontouring. Others, like the LANAP protocol below, are surgical procedures reserved for active gum disease.
What We Treat With Laser Dentistry
- Gum disease (LANAP). Regenerates bone and attachment lost to periodontal disease. See our gum disease treatment page for the full picture of periodontal care.
- Pocket disinfection. A non-surgical addition that reduces bacteria in periodontal pockets as part of gum treatment.
- Gum recontouring. Reshapes uneven or excess gum tissue with precision.
- Canker sore and cold sore relief. Laser treatment can reduce pain and speed healing. More on our canker and cold sore treatment page.
- Frenectomy. Releases a restrictive lip or tongue tie. Details on our frenectomy page.
The PerioLase MVP-7 and LANAP
LANAP (laser-assisted new attachment procedure) is a specific surgical protocol for treating gum disease that aims to regenerate bone and gum attachment rather than simply removing diseased tissue. The PerioLase MVP-7 is the only FDA-cleared device for this procedure. Dr. Walter uses it as part of a broader periodontal treatment plan, not as a stand-alone treatment; it’s one tool applied alongside options such as scaling and root planing or antibiotic therapy, where it’s clinically appropriate.
Laser Treatment vs. Traditional Methods
Are You a Candidate for Laser Treatment?
Candidacy depends on the specific condition being treated, gum disease severity, tissue health, or the reason for a frenectomy or lesion treatment. Gum disease can also be managed with scaling and root planing or antibiotic therapy, so laser treatment isn’t automatically the only option. Dr. Walter evaluates your case directly and explains whether laser treatment, traditional treatment, or a combination is the right fit before recommending anything.
Ask if Laser Treatment Is Right for You
Every cleaning at our office includes a free fluoride treatment, and every recommendation starts with a specific reason, not a default protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the PerioLase MVP-7 different from other dental lasers?
It’s the only FDA-cleared device for LANAP, the protocol used to regenerate bone and gum attachment lost to periodontal disease, rather than just cutting or disinfecting tissue.
Is LANAP painful?
Most patients report less discomfort than with traditional gum surgery, though your specific experience depends on the extent of treatment needed.
Is laser treatment the only way to treat gum disease?
No. Gum disease can also be managed with scaling and root planing or antibiotic therapy. Dr. Walter recommends LANAP only when it’s clinically appropriate for your specific case.
Can laser treatment be used for cosmetic gum reshaping?
Yes, laser gum recontouring can address uneven or excess gum tissue with more precision than traditional methods.
Does insurance cover laser gum treatment?
We’re out-of-network with all insurance plans and provide an itemized estimate before treatment. We prepare and submit claims on your behalf so you can pursue reimbursement.
Are you accepting new patients from Morningside Heights for laser treatment?
Yes. Our office is a direct 15-minute trip from Morningside Heights via the 1 train, and we welcome new patients from the neighborhood.
Related Pages
Learn more about our full periodontal approach on our sitewide Laser Dentistry page, or explore Dental Implants, Prosthodontist, Cosmetic Dentistry, and Emergency Dentist in Morningside Heights, or return to the Morningside Heights hub page.
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New York, NY 10023