The word “frenectomy” might sound a little scary, but it is actually a quick and simple surgical procedure that can have life-changing benefits. It is the most common way to address lip and tongue tie, conditions wherein a piece of tissue (called a frenum or frenulum) restricts the movements of the lip or tongue. Should your child undergo this treatment? Here are five signs that you should bring them in for a consultation with a dentist who offers it.
1. Difficulty Eating
In infants, a lip tie or tongue tie can make breastfeeding difficult because limited movement of the oral structures can interfere with proper latching. Following infancy, the problems with eating do not end. Your might child might avoid foods with certain textures. For example, foods that can get stuck between the cheeks and gums might pose a problem because your child may not be able to move their tongue to remove that debris.
2. Speech Problems
Clear, precise speech depends on complex interactions between the tongue and teeth. If the tongue cannot move properly, a child might find it challenging to enunciate certain sounds. Lisps are quite common in people with a tongue tie.
3. Mouth Breathing
A restricted upper lip or an improper resting position of the tongue can contribute to mouth breathing. Left unaddressed, long-term mouth breathing may lead to a range of dental problems, such as dry mouth, bad breath, and cavities. It can also allow irritants into the throat and become a factor in snoring and sleep apnea.
4. Misaligned Teeth
A lip tie can increase the risk of a gap developing between the upper front teeth. Although this is usually just an aesthetic problem, most people would prefer to have it corrected. Improper tongue positioning can also contribute to misaligned teeth. For example, tongue thrust (overly forward placement of the tongue) is common in individuals with tongue tie. As the tongue presses against the teeth, it can interfere with their alignment.
5. Gum Recession
A tied lip can create extra tension on the gum tissue, leading to premature gum recession. In addition to looking “long in the tooth,” your child might experience dental sensitivity and other problems related to poor gum health.
What to Expect with a Frenectomy
After learning about the above lip and tongue tie symptoms, do you suspect that your child needs a frenectomy? Both you and your little one might be a little nervous about their procedure, but there’s really no need to worry. If your care provider uses a soft tissue laser, anesthesia probably won’t even be necessary. There will be very little bleeding and discomfort, and the recovery time is quick. Plus, the treatment can prevent a slew of future problems and promote your child’s long-term oral and overall health.
About the Practice
Drs. Pamela West and Stephanie Gorczyca, along with the entire team at iSleepSolutions and TMJ Pain Therapy, are proud to offer laser frenectomies in a comfortable, welcoming environment. The treatment is available for patients of all ages, including children and adults. To learn more about frenectomies or to discover how else our practice may be able to serve you, contact us at 702-844-6226.