A child’s oral development plays a crucial role in their ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper dental hygiene. Some children are born with a tongue-tie or lip-tie, conditions that restrict movement and may interfere with daily activities such as breastfeeding, speech, and oral care. A simple procedure called a frenectomy can help resolve these concerns and improve your child’s quality of life.
At Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in providing gentle and effective treatments to support your child’s oral health. If you’re looking for expert care at a kid dentistry near me in Tiffin, here’s everything you need to know about frenectomies and how they can benefit your child.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor procedure that removes or releases the small piece of tissue (frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the upper lip to the gums. When this tissue is too tight, it can restrict movement, leading to feeding or speech difficulties.
There are two types of frenectomies:
- Lingual Frenectomy – This procedure corrects tongue-tie, which can interfere with speech and oral hygiene.
- Labial Frenectomy – This corrects lip-tie, which can cause spacing issues between the front teeth or difficulty with breastfeeding.
A consultation with a pediatric dentist in Tiffin Ohio can help determine whether your child needs a frenectomy.
Signs Your Child Might Need a Frenectomy
Not all tongue-ties or lip-ties require treatment, but if your child is experiencing any of the following issues, a frenectomy might be recommended:
- Breastfeeding Difficulties – Infants with tongue-tie may struggle to latch properly, causing discomfort for both baby and mother.
- Speech Issues – Older children may have trouble pronouncing certain letters or words due to limited tongue movement.
- Gum Recession or Tooth Spacing – A tight frenulum can pull on the gums, leading to spacing issues in permanent teeth.
- Difficulty Cleaning Teeth – Limited tongue mobility can make it harder to remove food particles, increasing the risk of cavities.
If you notice these signs, visiting a dentist for baby near me in Tiffin can help determine if a frenectomy is needed.
What to Expect During a Frenectomy
At Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry, we use the latest techniques to ensure a quick and comfortable frenectomy procedure. The process includes:
- A gentle evaluation to confirm if the procedure is necessary.
- Application of a numbing agent to prevent discomfort.
- A quick release of the frenulum using a laser or specialized tool.
- Minimal recovery time, with most children returning to normal activities within a day.
For children who may be anxious, our team ensures a calm and reassuring environment to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
A frenectomy can significantly enhance your child’s well-being by:
- Improving speech clarity
- Making breastfeeding more effective for infants
- Preventing future orthodontic concerns
- Enhancing oral hygiene and reducing cavities
Many parents notice improvements immediately after the procedure, particularly in speech and feeding habits.
When to See a Pediatric Dentist for a Frenectomy
If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, early evaluation is key to preventing long-term complications. Consulting with a pediatric emergency dentist in Tiffin OH can help determine the best approach for your child’s unique needs.
At Cuadra Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing expert care for children at every stage of their oral development. Whether your child needs a frenectomy, routine checkups, or emergency dental care, we are here to help.
Schedule an appointment today and give your child the best possible start to a lifetime of healthy smiles!