What Is a Frenectomy?

Is your baby struggling with breastfeeding or eating from a bottle? While there could be many possible explanations, one common one could be the need for a frenectomy.

If their diet is too restrictive, your baby could have trouble making the mouth movements necessary to eat. Over time, this condition could lead to several other complications.

Keep reading this short blog post to understand what a frenectomy is and how it can help your baby.

Frenectomy: a Simple Definition

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure designed to cut or change the frenum in the mouth and treat tongue-tie or lip-tie.

The frenum is that small soft tissue that connects one surface of the mouth to another. There are three types:

• Lingual: connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth
• Labial: connects the lips to the gums
• Buccal: connects the gums to the inside of the cheek

Usually, these pieces of tissue don’t affect mobility and allow the child to eat and speak properly. But when the environment is restrictive, it can affect healthy development.

How to Know If Your Child Needs a Frenectomy

With babies, one of the most common signs they need a frenectomy in Alexandria is difficulty eating. Whether it’s nursing or feeding from a bottle, the child can struggle to latch on because their environment is restricting them.

As they grow older, this condition can lead to other issues, particularly with their speech if they can’t extend their tongue well to form words.

In more severe cases, it can even cause bite or tooth alignment issues. Because of the lack of facial mobility, the child will need to compensate for this by holding their jaw in improper positions, which can affect how their baby teeth and adult teeth will erupt later on.

If you suspect your baby or toddler may need a frenectomy, the best way to know for sure is to see Dr. Courtney for a short consultation.

How Is a Frenectomy Performed?

Oral surgery sounds scary, but there’s nothing to worry about! It’s a simple procedure that usually only takes a few minutes.

Dr. Courtney will use a special laser that will gently remove excess tissue and separate the frenum. The procedure doesn’t even require anesthesia and will not cause any pain or discomfort to your child.

Aftercare is equally simple, and most babies completely heal from this procedure in just 2–3 days. Dr. Courtney will give you lots of personalized tips on how to care for your baby after their frenectomy.

Schedule a Consultation at Kingstowne Dental Specialists Today

If you suspect your child might need a frenectomy, meet with Dr. Courtney Marzban to confirm and access a pain-free procedure that will ensure your child’s healthy development.

Schedule a visit to Kingstowne Dental Specialists online or call us at (703) 493-0622 to find out more about our services.