Post-Frenectomy Stretches for Your Child

A short tongue or lip tie can cause an array of problems to your child, from problems when nursing to difficulty speaking or eating. During their first dental visits, the doctor can identify any potential tongue or lip tie problems and recommend a frenectomy if necessary. 

If that's the case, is there something you need to do after the procedure to help the healing process? 

Here's what you need to know. 

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is commonly known as a tongue or lip tie release. It involves releasing a frenulum that is too short, allowing the tongue or lip to move more freely and function correctly. Babies can be breastfed successfully after frenectomies, speech impediments are corrected and there are no more difficulties when eating.

Frenectomies are simple, quick procedures that cause very little discomfort, but it’s very important to perform stretches after the procedure, so the frenulum doesn’t fuse again. Parents should help their kids with the post-frenectomy exercises and be consistent to speed up the healing process and ensure the success of the procedure. 

When Is a Frenectomy Needed?

Frenectomies are needed when one or both of the frenulums in your child’s mouth (one under the tongue and one under the upper lip) are causing problems. Signs that a frenectomy is needed include improper latching during breastfeeding, insufficient weight gain in infants, problems pronouncing certain words, difficulty when eating, or large gaps in between the upper front teeth. 

Post-Frenectomy Stretches for Your Child

The exercises that the child has to do after their frenectomy are one of the most important aspects of the whole treatment. The tongue or lip tie can easily reattach after the frenectomy, making the procedure ineffective. 

Exercises should last about four weeks after the tie was cut, and be repeated about 5 times a day. 

For lip tie frenectomies, you need to place your finger under the child’s upper lip, lift it until you meet resistance, and then do a gentle sweeping motion from side to side for one or two seconds. 

For tongue-tie frenectomies, you need to grab the child’s tongue and stretch it upwards. You also need to grab the middle of their tongue with your index finger and thumb and push the middle of the tongue upwards. Try to separate the horizontal fold across the diamond, keeping its depth throughout the exercises. 

Book an Appointment Now

If your child shows symptoms of a tongue or lip tie, and you think a frenectomy is needed, book an appointment with Dr. Courtney Marzban, Pediatric Dentist at Kingstowne Dental Specialists. She or another doctor in our team can assess if your child does indeed need a frenectomy, and will explain the post-procedure protocol in detail. 

Contact us to book an appointment. Our team is extremely friendly, gentle, and professional. We know how to keep your child comfortable and safe during every procedure, helping them get familiar with the dental office and making the process as comfortable as possible.