Frenectomies in Kennewick, WA
A frenectomy is the removal of a small piece of tissue (called a frenulum) that prevents something in the body from moving too far. The two main types include the lingual and labial frenum.
The lingual frenum can be found between the bottom of the mouth and the base of the tongue. Sometimes it can restrict the tongue from moving, possibly preventing someone from eating or speaking properly. The person affected can get a frenectomy to allow the tongue to move properly.
The labial frenum is the tissue in the upper arch that attaches the gum to the lip. If it is too long or wide, it sometimes attaches through the gum tissue located between the two front teeth and the top of the mouth. When removing a gap between the front teeth, a frenectomy may be needed.
If you think you could benefit from this procedure, book an appointment with a dentist in Kennewick, WA, at A Family Dental Center, to get a professional opinion.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is when the dentist uses a scalpel, a laser, or a combination of the two, to reduce the size of the frenum. Depending on the dentist’s preferences and limitations of the procedure, the dentist will use the tools to form and cut the tissue for the best results.
A frenectomy can be beneficial to infants in many ways. Those born with a shorter frenum, sometimes referred to as “tongue-tie,” are likely to have difficulty nursing and to latch on during breastfeeding. If left untreated, the infant can develop malnourishment over difficulty getting the food that they need.
However, if this is treated as early as possible, you can reserve these harmful effects and restore your child’s quality of life and health.
Infants who need a frenectomy may choke easily and have trouble releasing and re-latching. Some of the other possible symptoms you may notice include:
- Developing cavities on the upper front teeth
- Making clicking noises while nursing
- Gumming at nipples while nursing
- Not able to swallow milk properly
- Developing ulcers on their lip
- Blocked airway (sleep apnea)
- Taking gulps while nursing
- Improper latch
Conversely, nursing mothers are likely to experience pain and discomfort while nursing, along with sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples. Infants who don’t get the proper treatment are likely to have trouble pronouncing words late in life.
It is, therefore, important for the infant and mother to seek treatment for a frenectomy early on. In doing so, you could prevent delays in your child’s natural maxilla growth development.
You will also be helping to ensure that your child gets the proper food intake early in their infant life. If you notice weight gain issues in your child with a shorter frenum, it’s important to seek help immediately.
We will be happy to see you for a consultation to discuss the best treatment option for your infant. We have advanced methods available that can provide the relief both you and your child need to leave normal, healthy lives.
What Happens After the Procedure?
There is usually very little pain or swelling afterward, and the person can have full use of their lips and tongue. People who have had this procedure describe the discomfort being similar to burning your mouth on hot food. Rinsing with mouthwash can help prevent infections and speed up the healing process.
Do Laser Frenectomies Have Any Benefits?
Laser frenectomies are virtually pain-free and require no anesthesia. The whole procedure only takes about one or two minutes. There is a lower risk of infection and the procedure produces very little bleeding. It also allows for a shorter healing and recovery time.
Book an Appointment Now!
A frenectomy is a simple procedure with minimal risks and recovery time. It can be performed at any age to improve oral health. Schedule your consultation with our dentist near you at A Family Dental Center in Kennewick, WA.