Tongue-tie is a condition where the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or short. This can limit tongue movement and lead to challenges with breastfeeding, speech development, eating, and oral hygiene. Fortunately, tongue-tie can be treated quickly and effectively with a simple procedure known as a frenectomy.
If your child has been diagnosed with tongue-tie, you may have questions or concerns about what to expect. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the treatment process, from evaluation to recovery.
Before the Procedure
The first step is a thorough evaluation. Your dentist, pediatrician, or lactation consultant may notice signs of restricted tongue movement. If tongue-tie is suspected, your child may be referred to a dentist or pediatric dentist experienced in treating the condition. The provider will assess the severity and determine whether a frenectomy is the right course of action.
You’ll also receive information about the process, healing, and any recommended pre-treatment exercises or preparation. In infants, feeding before the procedure may be encouraged so they’re calm and comfortable.
During the Procedure
A tongue-tie release is typically a quick, in-office procedure that only takes a few minutes. The common method to perform the treatment is called laser frenectomy. It is a soft-tissue laser used to gently cut and cauterize the tissue, which minimizes bleeding and discomfort. It’s commonly used in infants and young children.
For babies, local anesthesia or numbing gel is usually sufficient, and they can often nurse immediately afterward. Older children may receive a local anesthetic or mild sedation depending on the complexity of the case.
After the Procedure
Recovery is generally quick and mild.
- Immediate improvement: Many infants latch better and feed more efficiently right after the procedure. Older children may notice increased tongue mobility within days.
- Mild discomfort: There may be some soreness or swelling for a day or two. Pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication like infant acetaminophen if recommended by your provider.
- Stretching exercises: To prevent the tissue from reattaching, your dentist may recommend gentle stretches or movement exercises several times a day for a few weeks.
- Follow-up: A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to ensure healing is progressing well and that any feeding or speech concerns are improving.
Tongue-tie treatment can make a dramatic difference in your child’s ability to eat, speak, and thrive. With modern technology and local anesthesia, it’s a simple, pain-free process that should give parents nothing to worry about! If you suspect your baby, school-aged child, or teen may have a tongue-tie, schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist to see if treatment is needed.
About the Practice
If your child has a tongue-tie or you suspect they do, our team at Coral Kids Dentistry & Braces can quickly diagnose these issues and fix them even faster with gentle laser treatment in a matter of minutes. We are led by a board-certified pediatric dentist who can give your child the best care in our fun, colorful, and state-of-the-art office! Visit us online to schedule your appointment or call our St. Catharines office at 289-512-5388.