When you think of someone who is tongue-tied, you probably think about them failing a tongue twister. However, tongue-ties are an oral condition that affects around 3 – 5 percent of all infants according to Dr. Alison K. Hazelbaker of the Hazelbaker Lactation Institute. If you’re considering tongue-tie treatment for your child, it can be comforting to know what lies ahead.
Continue reading to find a comprehensive guide to tongue-tie treatment before, during, and after the correction.
What is a Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-ties occur when the lingual frenulum that connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight. This can cause problems with eating, speaking, and even breathing if left untreated. For infants, it can also prevent them from latching correctly while the mother is breastfeeding.
What Happens Before Tongue-Tie Treatment?
Before treatment, your child’s dentist will assess and diagnose the extent of the tongue-tie. This evaluation helps determine the necessity and approach for treatment. Their dentist will test their symptoms and examine your little one’s frenulum. If they conclude that a tongue-tie release is required, they’ll continue forward by performing a frenectomy.
What Happens During a Frenectomy?
The most common tongue-tie treatment is a frenectomy, a simple surgical procedure that involves cutting the frenulum that restricts tongue movement. Some dentists with advanced dental technology use soft tissue lasers like LightScalpel to perform this procedure.
With a LightScalpel, the procedure is quick, precise, and pain-free. Only a small amount of local anesthetic may be required to ensure that your child feels no discomfort. Once the frenulum is cut, your child will immediately be able to feel the difference!
What Happens After a Frenectomy?
After the frenectomy, your child may experience mild discomfort or swelling. The recovery is generally quick—24 to 48 hours in most cases. Your child’s dentist will provide post-procedure care instructions which generally include monitoring the incision site for any signs of infection. If the area where the frenulum was cut is white or yellow, that is normal and may take a few weeks to disappear.
Learning the process of tongue-tie treatment empowers you to move forward with confidence. Your child will feel so much better after the procedure, and so will you! If you have any questions or concerns at any stage, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental team for guidance and support.
About the Practice
At Healthy Sleep Tulsa their skilled team of dental experts works to solve troubled airways for better quality sleep and a higher standard of life. Sleep apnea, lip and tongue-tie, and even orthodontic treatments are all a part of their customized plans to help you and your loved ones breathe easier. To schedule an appointment, call (918) 300-4325 or visit the website to learn about other services they provide.