Lip and tongue-ties can be problematic for infants, children, and teenagers. Depending on the severity, the tie’s restriction may not manifest until your child is older, but most symptoms tend to develop during infancy. But how do you know what to look for? Here are four signs to look for and what you can expect when it’s time for your child to undergo a frenectomy.
How to Tell Your Child Needs a Frenectomy
When a lip or tongue-tie forms, it causes restriction, making it difficult to move them in all directions. This is why it is essential that proper steps be taken as soon as you notice any of the following issues:
- Your child has difficulty eating. If your baby is unable to latch properly while attempting to nurse, they likely have a lip or tongue tie. In older children, being able to swallow food properly can become difficult as well.
- A lisp forms. A tongue-tie can cause your child’s speech to sound “off.” A lisp can form that makes it hard to sound out certain syllables and words and can have a negative impact on your child’s self-esteem.
- Mouth breathing at night. Mouth breathing can put your child at risk for sleep apnea or other sleep-breathing disorders. Not only can it become difficult to get a good night’s rest, but the way the mouth stays open can alter their facial structure and development as well as increase their risk for gum recession.
- Gum recession. When a lip-tie causes a gap between the upper front two teeth, it can begin to pull back these soft oral tissues, exposing more of the natural tooth structure and increasing the risk for gum disease and sensitivity.
It is likely that when bringing these symptoms to the attention of your child’s dentist, they will recommend a frenectomy. This procedure is required when the band of tissue located underneath the tongue or behind the upper lip is too tight, preventing a broad range of movement. A frenectomy releases the tissue so that these oral and facial structures can freely move for optimal function.
What Happens During a Frenectomy?
By using a soft tissue laser, your child’s dentist can avoid the use of traditional scalpels and sutures, allowing for a quicker and more comfortable approach. In just minutes, the concentrated beam of light releases the banded tissue, cauterizing it immediately so that there is minimal bleeding and swelling. Also, the laser sterilizes the area so that there is minimal chance of infection.
Infants are strongly encouraged to breastfeed immediately following a frenectomy.
If you suspect your child has a lip or tongue-tie, don’t wait to seek help. Meeting with a skilled dentist can help them achieve greater oral function for the future.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Walker is a periodontist in Prosper, TX, who completed his dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry before pursuing a periodontal specialty at the same institution. Recognized as a New Dentist of the Year in 2013 by the Dallas County Dental Society, he is actively involved in various professional organizations. Using state-of-the-art technology, he can release banded oral tissues so that a lip or tongue-tie does not limit your child’s ability to eat, speak, breathe, or smile. If you think that your child needs a frenectomy, contact us at (469) 296-8680.