Frenectomy – Prosper, TX
Freedom from Lip and Tongue Tie
“Tongue tied” is a phrase that is often used to describe someone who is struggling to articulate their words. But a tongue tie is a real medication condition, wherein the tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) restricts the tongue’s movement. Lip tie is a separate condition, wherein a frenulum that connects the upper or lower lip to the gums hinders proper lip movement. Here at Texas Dental Surgery, we provide quick and gentle treatment for both lip and tongue tie.
Symptoms of Lip and Tongue Tie
Symptoms of lip or tongue tie vary by age, but may include things like:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Delayed speech development or other speech problems
- Oral health issues, such as bad breath and dental decay
- Jaw pain
- An improperly positioned jaw
- An aversion to foods of certain textures
- Difficulty speaking after drinking only a small amount of alcohol
- Habitual mouth breathing
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Breastfeeding difficulties for both mother and child
How Are Lip and Tongue Tie Treated?
A procedure called a frenectomy is the standard way to address lip and tongue tie. We use a soft tissue laser to loosen or remove the frenulum that is causing the restricted movement. The procedure takes only a few minutes. It can be used to help patients of any age, including infants.
Patients who are a bit older when they receive a frenectomy might require additional treatment. For example, they may need therapy to train them to hold their tongue in the correct position and to use it to their greatest advantage. Some may also need speech therapy.
What Can I Expect During and After a Frenectomy?
During the frenectomy, you should feel little to nothing. That is thanks in part to the fact that we use a soft tissue laser rather than a traditional scalpel to perform the procedure. You might experience a bit of soreness afterward, but it is highly unlikely that you will require pain medication. When we perform a frenectomy on an infant, we encourage breastfeeding right after the procedure so the child can begin to enjoy improved nutrition immediately. Breastfeeding may also bring the infant considerable comfort.
Are you or a loved one suffering from lip or tongue tie? The team at Texas Dental Surgery is ready to help! Contact us today for more information about this potentially life-changing procedure.
Lip & Tongue-Tie FAQs
Does a Frenectomy Hurt?
If your little one needs a frenectomy , it's normal to have some concerns about what they will experience. You don't want them suffering any pain, but there's no reason to worry. A numbing medication can be applied to the tissue, but it isn't always necessary. Our office uses the latest solution to perform frenectomies. A soft tissue laser eliminates the need for a scalpel or scissors. The minimally invasive tool will free the band of tissue quickly and painlessly. The laser cauterizes the area to prevent bleeding. It will also sterilize the tissue to reduce the risk of infections. This promotes a quicker recovery with few complications. Your little one may have some temporary discomfort, but it won't affect their eating or drinking. Any tenderness will improve within a couple of days.
How Long Does a Frenectomy Take?
A frenectomy is a very quick procedure that only takes a few minutes. After your child’s consultation, they'll be scheduled for their appointment. The band of tissue can be cut in just a few seconds. You and your little one will be on your way home in no time at all.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvement After a Frenectomy?
You can see an improvement in your child's lip or tongue movements almost instantly. As their mouth heals over the next week or two, and inflammation or discomfort improves, they will have a free range of motion to ensure their health and development.
How Will You Keep My Baby Still for the Frenectomy?
We do not want to sedate your little one, but we don’t want to put them through a traumatic experience, either. We find the best method is to make them feel calm and comfortable. We may swaddle them or hold them in our arms while the dentist quickly looks into their mouth to perform the procedure with the soft tissue laser. The entire process is so quick and comfortable that they may not even cry.
Can Adults Have Lip or Tongue-Tie Treatment?
It is never too late to have a lip or tongue tie corrected. No matter your age, you can be a candidate for a frenectomy using a soft tissue laser. We treat patients of all ages to ensure they have normal tongue and lip movements to support their wellness.