Is your little one experiencing eating, speech, or orthodontic issues? To correct the problem, a lingual frenectomy procedure may be recommended by your cosmetic dentist in Clyde, NC.
Top Questions Parents Ask About Frenectomy
What Exactly is a Frenectomy?
This common dental procedure is performed with zero to minimal pain during the first few weeks of birth. It involves the removal of the frenum or the little piece of connective tissue that’s found at the top or the bottom of your child’s mouth. It connects their lips, tongue, and cheeks to their gum area.
Although the body has several frenums, the ones that may have to be removed are found inside the mouth. Keep in mind that the lingual frenum has no distinct purpose. This means that removing them will cause no loss of function.
When is This Procedure Necessary?
Your baby’s ability to eat and eventually speak will be directly affected by a short frenum. This problem is usually detected early on because they’ll find it challenging to latch onto the breast, or they take a long time to feed.
Since they take in too much air when they’re feeding, they can also become extremely gassy. To find out if a frenectomy is necessary, your dentist will perform an assessment of your child’s frenum.
Can My Older Child Have a Frenectomy?
Although most cases that require frenectomy are detected in infancy, older children may still have it. Older kids who have short frena tend to have issues with pronunciation, difficulty swallowing, a tender mouth, or a sore.
What Happens If I Just Leave My Child With a Restricted Frenum?
An infant that’s left with a restricted frenum will experience issues with latching and breastfeeding. Later in life, they may also deal with orthodontic problems and speech difficulties.
Is Laser Frenectomy Safe?
Under the care of a highly skilled and trained dental professional, laser frenectomy has proven to be safe and successful in terms of long-term treatment. Compared to the use of traditional tools, a laser yields a more complete and precise result. Since it cauterizes the tissues within the child’s mouth, the risks of infection and bleeding are minimized.
How Does Laser Frenectomy Work?
Laser frenectomy involves the use of a pen-sized laser that removes the tight lingual frenulum. The infant has to be swaddled, and a pair of safety goggles will be used to protect their eyes. The entire procedure takes only about 15 minutes to complete.
Will It Hurt?
To ensure your baby’s comfort during the procedure, the dentist applies a topical anesthetic gel on your child’s frenular tissue prior to treatment. The effect of the anesthetic usually lasts for about 30 minutes
What Should I Do After the Procedure?
Your dentist will encourage breastfeeding immediately after the procedure. However, it’s important to note that your baby must undergo a healing period before they can fully enjoy the benefits. To facilitate healing, you’ll also be taught about proper active wound management and specific stretching exercises.
Are There Any Complications Associated With the Procedure?
Since a frenectomy is a simple dental procedure, complications are extremely rare. However, it’s still important for parents to be aware of the possible risks involved. These may include infection, excessive bleeding, scarring, damage to the salivary glands, nerves, or the tongue.
Are You Looking for a Cosmetic Dentist in Clyde, NC?
At Cataloochee Dental Group, we make sure that you and your family receive the highest level of service to help you maintain great oral health. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.