Frenectomy
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Herrin Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry located in Marietta, GA
A frenectomy can resolve feeding issues and improve speech and oral health for children with tongue or lip ties. Parents in Marietta, Georgia, can turn to Herrin Pediatric Dentistry for expert surgical care, where pediatric dentists Brent Herrin, DMD, and Allison Petty, DMD, and the team provide this quick and simple surgical procedure. Schedule an appointment today over the phone or online for your child at Herrin Pediatric Dentistry.
What is a frenectomy?
This surgical procedure removes or loosens connective tissue in the mouth. This tissue connects your lips and gums to your teeth and can cause significant problems with eating or speaking if it extends too far and restricts the movement of your lips or tongue.
Parents often rely on frenectomies to help infants overcome feeding issues. Still, they can help children of any age if a tongue tie or lip tie impacts speech, interfering with teeth spaces, or causing other oral problems.
You can request a consultation at Herrin Pediatric Dentistry to determine if your child’s mouth is restricted. The team performs an oral exam that is as gentle as it is thorough.
How can a frenectomy help my child?
If the tissue that connects the bottom of the tongue to the mouth is too short or tight, releasing it can have multiple benefits.
Enable healthier breastfeeding
Tongue ties or lip ties can make breastfeeding difficult or even painful for infants and mothers. If you’ve noticed your child struggles to gain weight, a frenectomy may be the solution.
Prevent struggles with speech
If your child’s oral structures are restricted or they can’t move their tongue the way you do, they may develop a speech impediment. Early treatment is vital to preventing frustration and building their confidence.
Improve eating ability for older children
Older children can also benefit from releasing restrictive tissues. They may not realize all the ways they have had to adapt to eat the same way as those around them and can experience new-found ease and freedom with eating.
What can I expect during and after my child’s frenectomy procedure?
This procedure is minimally invasive, generally performed in-office, and you can reassure your child that it won’t take long. The team carefully numbs the area and usually needs only 15-30 minutes to correct tissue overgrowth.
Some swelling and discomfort are typical and may last several days to 2-3 weeks. You will have detailed care instructions, and your provider may prescribe pain management medication. As the area heals, you’ll notice your child eating and speaking more freely.
To learn more about how a frenectomy can improve your child’s quality of life, call the Herrin Pediatric Dentistry office today or book your consultation online.