Frenectomies (Lip Tie or Tongue Tie) in Pueblo, CO
Does your child have a lip tie or tongue tie? A 15-minute, in-office procedure can correct the condition. We call these procedures frenectomies, and they’re very common. Parents may not even notice. Difficulty latching for feeding is often the first sign of a problem.
DID YOU KNOW?
Some people require a frenectomy as part of their orthodontic treatment. It’s a way to reposition the tongue to accommodate the growing and shifting jaw. For others, frenectomy eliminates a gap between their front teeth. Your orthodontist may suggest a frenectomy after braces to ensure the teeth and jaw maintain proper alignment.
What Are Frenectomies?
Inside the mouth, the bands of tissue that connect the tongue to the bottom of the mouth and the inside of the lips to the gums are called frenulums. Children with a tongue tie often require a lingual frenectomy, and those with a lip tie need a labial frenectomy. Some doctors refer to frenectomy as frenotomy; the terms are synonymous. Frenectomy is a common procedure performed in the comfort and familiarity of our dental office.
Symptoms Relieved by Frenectomies
Little ones with a tongue tie may have trouble breastfeeding, speaking clearly, and breathing effectively. As children grow, a tongue tie may interfere with jaw development.
A lip tie can cause issues with breastfeeding, and it may lead to orthodontic issues in the future.
A simple, short frenectomy will address these issues in babies and children:
- Latching onto a bottle or breast
- Trouble opening the mouth widely
- Tip of the tongue with heart shape
- Excessive gas
- Narrow palate (top jaw)
- Protruding mandible (lower jaw)
- Eating and digestion issues
Preparing for Frenectomies
We understand and respect that for you and your child, this procedure will be a brand-new experience. We know how to support both you and your little one before, during, and following a frenectomy. If you have any questions or concerns, ask anyone on our team. We’re always pleased to do all we can to help our patients and parents feel well cared for and fully informed.
Toddlers and children scheduled for frenectomies need you to help them prepare, mentally and emotionally, for the procedure. Positive talk, encouraging words, and prior visits to our office will help reduce any fear or anxiety. By staying with your child through the visit, you can offer reassurance, comfort, and that “you can do this!” attitude your little one needs. Plan to bring a favorite toy, stuffy, or electronic device to distract and entertain your child.
Frenectomy After-care
Please follow the postsurgical instructions we provide and attend scheduled follow-up visits.
After frenectomies, babies may feel only mild discomfort, usually expressed by fussiness. If necessary, the dentist can advise you on which over-the-counter pain reliever to use to ease any discomfort.
After the short procedure, your child’s neck and/or chest may look red. This is a normal reaction to anesthesia, and it will go away. Expect some swelling in tissues around the surgical site, as well. Swallowing may also be a bit uncomfortable just after a frenectomy. Hydration helps, so give your little one water. You can also rub water on their lips The stitches will dissolve on their own; our staff will not need to remove them.
Frenectomies in Pueblo
Our experienced, professional team of dental experts will guide you through the procedure and explain every aspect of frenectomies, so you can know what to expect. If you have questions or concerns, or you would like to schedule a visit so the dentist can evaluate your child, contact our office today!
