A frenectomy can be a solution for feeding and speech difficulties due to a lip or tongue tie. The quick procedure improves oral function and supports proper development.
A Simple Solution for Feeding, Speech, and Comfort
The lingual frenum and labial frenum are connective tissues that connect the tongue to the base of the mouth and the gums above the top front teeth to the lip, respectively. When the tissue is too short or tight, it restricts movement and causes a tongue or lip tie, which can impact feeding, speech, and development. At PDS, our board-certified pediatric dentists use advanced laser technology to quickly release the tight oral tissues, while keeping patients as comfortable as possible.
What to Expect During a Frenectomy
Step 1
Comprehensive Evaluation:
Our team will assess your child’s oral anatomy to determine if a lip or tongue tie is causing feeding, speech, or mobility issues. We’ll walk you through the diagnosis and explain how a frenectomy can help.
Step 2
Preparation and Anesthesia:
The dentist will explain the procedure to your child in kid-friendly terms to ease any anxiety. They may also use a topical anesthetic or local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.
Step 3
Laser Release:
Using a soft tissue laser, the dentist will carefully release the tight frenulum. This precise, minimally invasive technique reduces bleeding and discomfort.
Step 4
Immediate Results and Guidance:
Babies can often feed right after the procedure, and older children will notice improved mobility almost immediately. We’ll provide after-care instructions to support recovery and prevent reattachment.
Benefits of Frenectomies
01.
Improves Feeding
A frenectomy can help infants latch correctly, allowing for more efficient feeding and better weight gain.
02.
Supports Speech Development
Releasing a tongue or lip tie gives children the freedom to move their tongue and lips correctly, which can improve speech.
03.
Minimizes Discomfort
Laser technology minimizes bleeding and makes the procedure quick, precise, and as comfortable as possible.
FAQ
What is a tongue or lip tie?
A tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum, the tissue that runs vertically from the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is too tight or thick, which restricts movement. A lip tie is when the tissue connecting the gums above the top front teeth to the lip is overly tight and limits lip mobility.
Does my child need a frenectomy?
If your child is experiencing feeding difficulties, speech delays, or struggles with chewing or swallowing, a frenectomy may be recommended. A consultation with one of our pediatric dentists will help determine the best course of action.
How do you keep my child comfortable during a frenectomies?
We use advanced laser technology when performing frenectomies in Spring, TX. This makes the procedure quick and precise. We also administer a topical or local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire thing typically lasts between 5-10 minutes, while the frenectomy itself takes about a minute.
What are the risks of not treating a tongue or lip tie?
Untreated tongue and lip ties can lead to feeding issues, speech delays, gaps between the teeth, and/or difficulty eating certain foods. Early intervention can prevent these complications and keep your child’s oral and speech development on track.
