What Is a Frenectomy Coronado, CA
Many children struggle with an oral condition known as "tongue-tie." If your child has a tongue-tie, the dentist might recommend a minor surgery. Learning that your child needs surgery can be scary and confusing. But many childhood dental procedures are fast and low-risk. A frenectomy can repair tongue-tie during a single office visit.
Pediatric dentists are available at Coronado Dentistry & Pediatrics in Coronado and the surrounding area. Our team helps parents plan their child's procedure. We offer compassionate care for children and ongoing support for parents. Call us at (619) 435 6231 to learn more about our services.
Understanding the Primary Frena
The frena are delicate strips of connective tissue. They connect loose parts of the mouth, like the tongue, to the jaw or gums. Oral frena can be broken down into three categories:
- The lingual frenum: connects the tongue to the lower jaw.
- The labial frenum: connects the lips to the front teeth.
- The buccal frena: connects the gums and the inside of the cheeks
Children can develop problems with any of these oral tissues. Challenges with the lingual frenum are especially common. Sometimes, the tissue is very short at birth. A shortened lingual frenum prevents the tongue from moving freely. Doctors and dentists call this condition "tongue-tie."
Tongue-tie can make it hard for a baby to breastfeed. Children with tongue ties might also develop speech issues as they grow older. If a child has an abnormal labial and buccal frena, they might develop orthodontic problems. Their teeth might not shift into the correct position.
Fortunately, an outpatient procedure called a frenectomy can help. A frenectomy adjusts the size and shape of the frena. It can help babies breastfeed more easily. The procedure also reduces the risk of future oral health problems.
“A shortened lingual frenum prevents the tongue from moving freely.”
When to Consider a Frenectomy
Doctors can often diagnose a tongue-tie early on. Many cases of tongue-tie are detected in this hospital just hours after birth. But sometimes, the condition goes unnoticed. Problems may not arise until the child reaches school age. Your child's teacher might spot some speaking or pronunciation issues. The teacher might suggest a medical and dental evaluation.
During routine dental care, the dentist looks for problems with the frena. If they notice any abnormalities, they determine whether further care is needed. Not every child with abnormal frena needs surgery. Some issues may resolve on their own. But if surgery is necessary, the dentist can explain the next steps.
“During routine dental care, the dentist looks for problems with the frena.”
What to Expect During a Frenectomy
Most frenectomies are outpatient procedures. In older children, the procedure might take as little as 15 minutes. To begin, the doctor determines what kind of procedure to perform. They may opt for a traditional or a laser frenectomy.
During a traditional frenectomy, the dentist numbs the child's mouth. Next, they use a sharp instrument to sever the tissue. This process might sound frightening, but it is a routine procedure that can be performed within seconds. After the dentist snips the tissue, they might cauterize it. In some cases, the dentist closes the area with stitches. These stitches often dissolve on their own within a few weeks.
Laser frenectomies do not require scalpels or incisions. They can sometimes be performed without an anesthetic. Laser frenectomies offer added precision and control for the dental provider. Patients often experience less bleeding, too.
“In older children, the procedure might take as little as 15 minutes.”
Preparing Your Child for the Procedure
During the consultation, parents can speak to the provider about their child's procedure. Each procedure looks a little different. The provider accounts for the child's age, activity level, and tolerance for discomfort.
Some patients might receive a light sedative or other medications. These drugs help the child stay calm and relaxed during the procedure. Parents typically remain with their children throughout the procedure. They can provide additional comfort and reassurance.
If the child is older, parents should talk with them about their upcoming procedure. Use simple, positive language. Explain that the provider wants to help their mouth grow well. Parents and caregivers can reassure the child that the procedure will not hurt and that they will stay with them.
Frenectomies in Infants
In babies, the procedure is especially quick. An infant's frenum is thin and has very few nerves. As a result, an anesthetic is not needed. There is little to no bleeding. Doctors and dentists can usually complete the procedure within 60 seconds. The baby can breastfeed immediately after the procedure.
“Some patients might receive a light sedative or other medications.”
Aftercare
Keep the incision area clean, and avoid any sharp foods for a few days. The dentist can provide a list of recommended foods for the recovery period. The child might also receive antibiotics to prevent infection. Make sure the child takes the medication as directed. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day. In older children, full recovery may take up to two weeks. Babies usually recover much faster.
“Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day.”
Frequently Asked Questions
New patients and emergency appointments welcome
Definition of Pediatric Dental Terminology
Frenectomy
A frenectomy is an oral surgical procedure that reshapes and resizes the frena to repair tongue-tie.
Frenum
The frena are strips of connective tissue that connect loose parts of the mouth.
Gums
The soft tissue lining of the mouth that surrounds teeth and provides a seal around them.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is also commonly known as laughing gas and is a colorless and odorless gas used as a sedative agent in dentistry.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery refers to the branch of dentistry that deals with maxillofacial conditions and injuries requiring surgical intervention.
Outpatient
A patient who is treated without admission to a hospital overnight. A frenectomy is done as and outpatient procedure.
Palate
The palate is the roof of the mouth that forms the division between the oral and nasal cavities.
Pediatric Dentist
A pediatric dentist is a dentist that has training in the diagnosis and treatment of the dental problems of children from infancy to young adulthood. Also known as a pedodontist, they work with those with special needs as well.
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry is the specialty branch of dentistry that focuses exclusively on children.
Tongue-tie
Tongue-tie refers to a condition in which the strip of skin connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is shorter than normal and restricts movement and interferes with breast feeding.