Is your baby not gaining weight as expected, producing clicking sounds, experiencing difficulties with latching during breastfeeding, or causing you discomfort or swelling? These symptoms could be indicative of a condition known as tongue tie, which restricts their tongue’s movement. Untreated, tongue ties can potentially result in nutritional deficiencies, dental complications, speech impediments, and other concerns. If your baby requires a frenectomy to address this issue, read on to understand what to anticipate before, during, and after the procedure.
Before the Frenectomy
Prior to the frenectomy procedure, your child should undergo an evaluation conducted by a pediatrician or a specialist in tongue-tie. Through an examination of the strip of tissue linking the tongue to the floor of the mouth, known as the frenulum, they can ascertain the presence of this condition.
While the frenulum typically thins as a child grows, in cases where it does not, it can limit tongue movement. If this is the situation with your child, the surplus tissue must be removed through a tongue-tie revision procedure.
During Tongue-Tie Revision
If your child requires a tongue-tie revision, there’s no need for concern. The procedure is brief, typically lasting only a few minutes, and modern technology ensures it is as comfortable as possible. In most cases, only a small amount of local anesthetic is required to minimize pain or discomfort.
In the course of the procedure, the tongue-tie specialist will typically employ a laser to eliminate the excess tissue. This laser employs a highly concentrated beam to simultaneously remove the tissue and cauterize it.
This approach serves to minimize any bleeding, swelling, or post-treatment discomfort. The use of this ultra-precise laser also ensures that only the required amount of tissue is removed, preventing interference with your child’s development.
After Tongue-Tie Treatment
Following the frenectomy, your child should generally take about a week or two to heal completely. The majority of their discomfort typically diminishes within the first 24 hours after the procedure.
If they do experience any pain, you can administer the recommended dose of children’s Tylenol, although natural methods of pain relief are preferred for infants. These can include breastfeeding and providing skin-to-skin contact.
Right after the frenectomy, you should be able to breastfeed your child. Moreover, the specialist will provide you with comprehensive post-treatment guidance. Typically, this guidance encompasses tongue-stretching exercises, which are essential for preventing the frenulum from reattaching.
About the Practice
Parents seeking an adept pediatric dentist for their child are in the right spot. Dr. Michael Rullo, Dr. Shameel Khan, and their team at Coral Kids Dentistry & Braces are experts in all aspects of children’s oral health. They specialize in performing frenectomies for babies with tongue or lip ties to enable comfortable and easy breastfeeding. Are you prepared to book an appointment with Coral Kids Dentistry & Braces or would you like to discover more about their services? If so, reach out to their office at (905) 684-5437 or begin by visiting their website.