Does My Child Actually Need a Frenectomy?

If your child's pediatric dentist has told you that your child may need a frenectomy, it’s understandable that the first thing you want to do is find out as much detail about this procedure as soon as possible to be able to make the best decision for them.

Some questions that may come to mind are:

• What is a frenectomy?
• Why might a frenectomy be needed?
• Are there different types of frenectomies?
• What are the risks of a frenectomy?
• How is a frenectomy performed?

In this article, we will answer all these questions to help you better understand frenectomies, so that you will be able to make the best decisions for your child and know what to expect. 

So, What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a procedure that involves removing connective tissue (also called frenum) that is located under the tongue or on the upper gums.

Why Might a Frenectomy Be Needed?

Several medical causes may require frenectomy intervention, such as:

• Ankyloglossia - This is a medical condition usually caused by a thick, short frenulum that extends from under the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This frenum can create difficulties for the baby when it comes to talking or breastfeeding. Over time, if this problem is not corrected, your little one may try to reposition their jaw gradually to make it easier to speak. However, this might create orthodontic issues in the future.

• Lip-tie - This is the name of another medical condition caused by a large or tight frenulum that is positioned between the front teeth and upper gum. This makes it difficult for newborns to stick to the mother's breast when breastfeeding. If this problem is not corrected in time, it can push the front teeth apart, requiring orthodontic treatment. 

Types of Frenectomies

Two types of frenectomies can be performed:

• Lingual Frenectomy - This procedure involves removing the connective tissue that links the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This procedure is used to treat Ankyloglossia.

• Maxillary Frenectomy - The dentist will remove the connective tissue that ties the upper gums to the front teeth. This procedure is used to treat lip-tie.

What Are the Risks of a Frenectomy?

The risks involved in this procedure are few and rare. Some of them include:

• Infections
• Bleeding
• Tongue numbness
• Development of scar tissue
• Temporary soreness

Most of these effects are temporary.

How Is a Frenectomy Performed?

Dentists use a soft-tissue laser that focuses a beam of light toward the connective tissue that needs to be removed. This method of treatment does not cause very much bleeding, and the discomfort is kept to a low level. Also, the healing process is fast.

Does My Child Need a Frenectomy

If you suspect that your child might need a frenectomy, the best thing you can do is to schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist and let them know about your concerns. They will examine your child’s mouth and recommend the best course of action.

Kingstowne Dental Specialists Can Ensure Your Child's Oral Health

If you are looking for a dental office full of kind and emphatic pediatric dentists for your child, then our team here at Kingstowne Dental Specialists can help. 

Contact us now to book your appointment and give your child the smile they deserve.