Say Goodbye to Tongue and Lip-Tie Issues: Discover the Gentle and Effective Laser Frenectomy at Inspire!
When is a frenectomy needed?
A frenectomy becomes necessary when the frenulum, which connects the inside of the upper lip to the gums above the front teeth, is thick or tight. This condition can have various impacts, such as difficulty latching during breastfeeding and discomfort for the mother. Additionally, it can hinder proper teeth eruption, impair speech, make swallowing challenging, and even raise the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Dr. Wanamaker performs laser frenectomies in children for reasons beyond latching or nursing issues alone. There is no age restriction for this procedure, and we are equipped to treat children of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Trouble breastfeeding (poor latch)
- Clicking noises while breastfeeding
- Poor weight gain
- Reflux or spitting up often
- Gassy or fussy
- Frustration when eating
- Unable to hold a pacifier
- Prolonged nursing or bottle-feeding sessions
A mom can experience the following:
- Discomfort when breastfeeding
- Sore/blanched nipples after nursing
- Low milk production
- Blocked ducts and mastitis
A child can experience the following:
- Issues with tonsils and adenoids
- Trouble sleeping and airway issues
- Continued speech impairment
- Headaches
- Minimal pain/discomfort
- Little bleeding
- Quick procedure
- Fast healing and recovery
- No anesthesia, sedation, or sutures needed
- Very little chance of infection or for re-attachment
- Infants can be fed immediately after the procedure
This will be an hour-long appointment that includes: the procedure, parent education, and post-op instructions. Dr. Wanamaker will have the mother immediately try breastfeeding after the frenectomy to ensure the baby is able to latch on better. We ask that if you are breastfeeding to bring your infant hungry as well as a swaddle blanket to nurse right after.
For the procedure, a laser will be used to release the physical restriction of the frenulum. This will allow for a more normal lip and/or tongue movement.
There may be some swelling or soreness following the procedure which can lead to increased fussiness. It is best to give them pain medication immediately after the procedure to stay ahead of any discomfort. You can then proceed with pain medication as advised by our dental team.
Dr. Wanamaker will go over different stretching exercises for you to perform on your infant while the new frenulum is healing. It is crucial to do these exercises and to be consistent to prevent re-attachment and so that the mouth can heal quickly.
