Tongue Tie/Lip Tie Release
A tongue tie is a condition where the thin piece of tissue (frenulum) beneath the tongue is shorter or tighter than usual, restricting the tongue’s movement which can lead to complications like trouble breastfeeding or speech impediments. This condition can affect infants, children, and even adults.
Signs and Symptoms
Identifying tongue ties early is crucial. Look for these signs in your child:
● Difficulty sticking the tongue out past the lower front teeth
● Trouble breastfeeding or latching
● Poor weight gain due to inability to feed effectively
● Challenges with speech development
● Oral hygiene issues due to limited tongue movement
● Difficulty moving the tongue from side to side
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Dentistry Junior, our skilled pediatric dentist conducts a thorough examination to diagnose tongue tie. Treatment options may include:
- Frenotomy: A simple and minimally invasive procedure where the frenulum is clipped or lasered, allowing for increased tongue movement. This procedure is quick and generally causes minimal discomfort.
- Frenuloplasty: In certain cases where the tongue tie is more severe, a more extensive release of the frenulum might be recommended. Our team discusses this option if needed.
Treatment Process
- Assessment: Our pediatric dentists conduct a thorough assessment to diagnose the severity of tongue tie, considering its impact on various aspects of your child’s oral health.
- Consultation: We engage in detailed discussions with parents, addressing concerns and explaining the recommended treatment options, ensuring transparency and understanding throughout the process.
- Procedure: The chosen treatment, whether frenectomy or frenuloplasty, is performed with precision and care by our experienced professionals in a comfortable and child-friendly environment.
- Aftercare: We provide comprehensive post-procedure instructions to ensure optimal healing and recovery. We are available to address any concerns or questions that may arise during this period.
Using Laser Technology to Correct Tongue Tie
Dr Shruti Jayasurya, a specialist in tongue ties often uses advanced dental lasers to correct tongue ties. This extremely precise technology allows us to quickly release the frenulum in a virtually painless procedure for children called a frenotomy.
The laser treatment takes just a few minutes and does not require stitches or significant recovery. Your child will finally gain full tongue mobility needed for clear speech and oral health.
At Dentistry Junior, we’re dedicated to early intervention and gentle, effective treatments for tongue tie and lip tie. Our goal is to enhance your child’s oral health and development through minimally invasive procedures like frenotomy and frenuloplasty. From assessment to post-treatment care, we prioritise your child’s comfort and well-being, ensuring a brighter, healthier smile for the future
FAQs
No, tongue tie requires a minor procedure to release the tie. Without treatment, symptoms often persist and may worsen over time.
Frenotomy is a relatively quick procedures, usually lasting just a few minutes.
Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor healing progress. Our team ensures your child’s recovery is progressing as expected and provides guidance on any necessary aftercare.
While some cases of lip tie might not cause immediate issues, addressing it can prevent potential oral hygiene problems, dental misalignment, or challenges in the future.
Frenotomy is a safe procedures when performed by experienced professionals. Risks are minimal and typically involve minor bleeding or discomfort, which subsides quickly. Our team discusses these aspects and provides comprehensive pre-procedure information.
Children typically adapt quickly to improved tongue movement. Any changes in feeding or speech patterns usually adjust within a short period after the procedure.