Understanding Frenectomy: Answers to Your Questions About Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie Treatment
Tongue-tie and lip-tie can impact a child’s ability to eat, speak, breastfeed, and even breathe properly. A frenectomy is a simple and effective procedure that can help improve oral function and overall well-being. Your pediatrician or lactation consultant may even recommend this procedure for a newborn. At Simply Kids Dental in Colorado Springs, Colorado, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tongue-tie and lip-tie in infants and children. Below, we answer some of the parents’ most common questions about this condition and its treatment.
What Is Tongue-Tie And Lip-Tie?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) and lip-tie occur when the thin band of tissue (frenum) under the tongue or upper lip is too tight or restrictive. This can limit movement, causing difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and oral development.
When a frenulum is abnormally short or tight, it can limit the movement of the tongue or lip, affecting various oral functions. Simply Kids Dental provides a frenectomy, also known as tongue/lip-tie release. This simple surgical procedure addresses the restrictive tissue band and helps restore normal movement and function.
How Do I Know If My Child Has Tongue-Tie Or Lip-Tie?
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the restriction. Signs of tongue-tie in infants and children include:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Frequent fussiness or frustration while feeding
- Mother experiencing pain or milk leaking during breastfeedingÂ
- Poor weight gain despite frequent feeding
- Speech difficulties as they grow (such as trouble pronouncing certain sounds)
- Limited tongue movement, such as an inability to stick the tongue out or touch the roof of the mouth
Older children may experience the following tongue-tie symptoms:
- Trouble articulating certain sounds
- Inability to stick their tongue past the teeth
- Trouble licking an ice cream
- Challenges playing wind instruments
- The risk of tooth decay increases because the tongue cannot effectively remove food particles from the mouth.
Lip-tie symptoms often include:
- Difficulty flanging the upper lip during breastfeeding
- A gap between the front teeth
- Increased risk of cavities due to restricted lip movement affecting oral hygiene
Post-operative video discussed in the office
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Frenectomy, And How Does It Help?
A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that releases the tight tissue under the tongue or lip, allowing for greater mobility. The procedure can improve feeding, speech development, and overall oral function while preventing future complications.
Is A Frenectomy Painful For My Child?
No, a frenectomy is a gentle and quick procedure. At Simply Kids Dental, we use advanced techniques, with either a surgical scalpel, scissors, or a high-precision laser, which minimizes discomfort and reduces healing time. Infants often experience immediate relief with improved feeding, while older children benefit from better tongue mobility for speech and eating.
This procedure usually does not require stitches and takes only a few seconds to complete.
How Long Does It Take For My Child To Recover?
Recovery is quick, with most children experiencing minimal discomfort. Parents are encouraged to perform gentle tongue and lip exercises given to the patient after the procedure to prevent reattachment and ensure optimal healing. Babies can typically resume breastfeeding right away, often with noticeable improvement. We’ll provide post-care instructions encompassing pain management, feeding, and post-procedure instructional videos for a quick recovery.
To prevent reattachment, it is essential to follow our office’s guidelines, which may include performing exercises after the procedure. These exercises help maintain the separation of the tissues and support optimal healing.
Can Tongue-Tie Or Lip-Tie Cause Problems If Left Untreated?
Yes, untreated tongue-tie or lip-tie can lead to long-term issues, including:
- Persistent feeding difficulties and weight gain issues in infants
- Speech delays or articulation problems
- Increased risk of dental problems, such as cavities and gum recession
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing as the child grows
How Can I Schedule A Consultation For A Frenectomy?
If you suspect your child has tongue-tie or lip-tie, our expert team at Simply Kids Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, is here to help. We provide gentle, effective frenectomy treatments tailored to your child’s needs. Call us today at (719) 249-2030 to schedule a consultation and give your child the best start for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
