Are you concerned that your child may have tongue or lip ties? There are a few signs you can look out for to determine if you should come to Saginaw Kids Dentistry for a consult with Dr. Elias or Dr. Christina.
Both tongue and lip ties can make it hard for your child to latch properly onto the breast or bottle. Some mothers may also experience discomfort due to improper latching. Sometimes, you may also hear "clicking" noises when your child tries to suckle. If you experience any of these symptoms, please give Dr. Christina or Dr. Elias a call at 682-285-1900.
Due to problems with feeding, children with tongue or lip ties may struggle to gain weight at the expected rate.
Some kids with tongue ties may have trouble making certain sounds that involve the tongue contacting the upper teeth, like “t” “d” and “z.”
Tongue ties and lip ties are related, but distinct from one another. A tongue tie happens when the band of tissue (frenulum) connecting the tongue to the base of the mouth is too thick and overdeveloped. Lip ties are similar, but affect the frenulum connecting the upper, lower, or both lips.
Yes, frenectomies are a very common and safe procedure. At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, we offer the latest laser technology. This results in:
We offer consultations for tongue and lip ties so you can get peace of mind and the answers you need.
Choosing to get a laser frenectomy for your child at Saginaw Kids Dentistry has a variety of benefits.
Tongue ties can result in low weight and failure to thrive due to breast or bottle-feeding difficulties. A frenectomy eliminates these issues.
Your child will be able to move their tongue and lips freely and normally after treatment.
Early treatment eliminates the risk of your child developing a speech impediment due to tongue ties.
Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias take a holistic approach to diagnosing tongue and lip tie attachments. If your child is having any issues and if our doctors feel that a frenectomy will be beneficial, our office will help schedule your child's treatment right away. During the treatment, your child will be held safely and securely, and a soft tissue laser will be used to release their tongue or lip tie. This entire process takes only a few minutes, and typically no numbing or sutures are required.
Dr. Christina or Dr. Elias will recommend instructions on tongue and/or lip tie exercises after your child's frenectomy treatment. Our doctors would also do a complimentary follow up visit to make sure you did these exercises properly and to reevaluate the quick healing process.
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us at (682)-285-1900 to speak with our team!
A frenectomy is a procedure that can make a world of difference for children facing certain oral challenges. As a parent, you might wonder how to determine if your child needs this treatment. Key signs to look out for include difficulties with breastfeeding, such as trouble latching or prolonged feeding times, which can be caused by a lip or tongue tie.
Older children may experience speech difficulties, particularly with sounds that require the tongue to touch the roof of the mouth. Dental issues, like gaps between teeth or recession of the gums, can also indicate a problem.
If your child exhibits any of these signs, it's wise to consult with a pediatric dentist who can provide a thorough assessment. At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, Dr. Elias and Dr. Christina are skilled in diagnosing issues that may require a frenectomy, ensuring your child receives the best care tailored to their needs.
The frenectomy procedure is straightforward and typically quick, which is reassuring for parents concerned about their child's comfort. For infants and young children, the procedure is often performed using a laser, which minimizes bleeding and reduces recovery time. This method is particularly gentle and causes minimal discomfort. During the procedure, the pediatric dentist will use the laser to release the frenulum, the small fold of tissue causing the restriction.
The entire process usually takes just a few minutes, and because it is minimally invasive, anesthesia may not be necessary for infants. Older children might receive a local anesthetic to ensure they remain comfortable throughout.
Parents can expect the procedure to be over quickly, allowing them to focus on comforting their child and beginning the recovery process. The team at Saginaw Kids Dentistry is committed to making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for both children and parents.
The recovery process following a frenectomy is generally swift and uncomplicated, which is great news for parents and children alike. Immediately after the procedure, some swelling or minor discomfort is normal, but this usually subsides within a few days. Infants often resume breastfeeding almost immediately, and parents might notice an improvement in feeding efficiency.
It’s also important to follow the dentist's post-operative care instructions, which may include gentle exercises to prevent reattachment of the frenulum. These exercises are simple and can be incorporated into daily routines. Most children can return to their regular activities within a day or two, though it's advisable to monitor them for any signs of discomfort or unusual symptoms.
At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, Dr. Elias and Dr. Christina provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available to address any concerns during the recovery period, ensuring your child's return to normalcy is as smooth as possible.
As with any medical procedure, it's natural for parents to have concerns about potential risks or complications associated with a frenectomy. Fortunately, this procedure is considered very safe, especially when performed by experienced pediatric dentists like Dr. Elias and Dr. Christina. The most common risks include minor bleeding, swelling, or infection, but these are rare and typically manageable with proper aftercare.
Using a laser for the procedure significantly reduces these risks, as it cauterizes tissue, minimizing bleeding and the chance of infection. Another concern might be the possibility of the frenulum reattaching, which is why post-operative exercises are crucial. It's important to follow the dentist's guidelines closely to ensure the best outcome.
At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, we prioritize your child's safety and well-being, providing comprehensive care and support throughout the process. Our team is dedicated to answering any questions you may have and ensuring you feel confident in the care your child receives.
Not sure if your child needs a frenectomy? We offer free, no-commitment consultations for kids who may have tongue and lip ties. Call us at (682) 285-1900 to get started.
Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias are here to help with fast, safe laser frenectomies