A child’s oral development plays a crucial role in their ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper dental hygiene. Sometimes, a condition called tongue-tie or lip-tie can limit movement and cause difficulties in these areas. A frenectomy is a simple procedure that can resolve these issues and improve your child’s quality of life.
At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we specialize in pediatric dental care, including frenectomies for children who may be experiencing feeding or speech challenges. If you’re concerned about your child’s oral development, here’s what you need to know about this procedure.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases the small band of tissue (frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. This treatment is often recommended for children with restricted oral movement due to tongue-tie or lip-tie.
There are two types of frenectomies:
- Lingual Frenectomy – Used to correct tongue-tie, which can impact speech, feeding, and oral hygiene.
- Labial Frenectomy – Used to correct lip-tie, which may cause breastfeeding difficulties in infants and spacing issues in older children.
A consultation with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS can help determine whether your child would benefit from this procedure.
Signs Your Child Might Need a Frenectomy
While some children with a mild tongue-tie or lip-tie adapt without issues, others may experience noticeable difficulties. Common signs that a frenectomy may be needed include:
- Breastfeeding Challenges – Infants may struggle to latch, leading to frustration for both the baby and mother.
- Speech Difficulties – Children may have trouble pronouncing certain sounds, such as “L,” “R,” or “S.”
- Gum Recession or Gaps Between Teeth – A tight frenulum may pull on the gums, leading to spacing concerns.
- Difficulty with Oral Hygiene – Limited tongue movement can make it hard for children to clean their teeth properly, increasing the risk of cavities.
If your child is showing any of these signs, visiting a top pediatric dentist near Overland Park can help determine whether a frenectomy is the best solution.
What to Expect During a Frenectomy
At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to make the frenectomy procedure quick and comfortable. The process typically includes:
- A gentle evaluation to determine if a frenectomy is needed.
- Application of a numbing agent to ensure a pain-free experience.
- A quick release of the frenulum using laser technology or a small surgical tool.
- Minimal recovery time, with most children resuming normal activities the same day.
For children who may be nervous about the procedure, our team provides a calm and reassuring environment. If necessary, an emergency pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS can offer sedation options for added comfort.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
A frenectomy can greatly improve your child’s oral function by:
- Enhancing speech development
- Improving feeding ability in infants
- Reducing future orthodontic concerns
- Helping with better oral hygiene
Many parents notice immediate improvements in their child’s ability to eat, speak, and move their tongue freely after the procedure.
When to See a Pediatric Dentist for a Frenectomy
If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, scheduling an evaluation with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS is the best way to determine the right course of action. Early intervention can prevent long-term issues and make daily activities like speaking and eating much easier for your child.
At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we provide expert, compassionate care for children of all ages. Whether your child needs a frenectomy, routine dental checkups, or emergency dental care, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your child’s oral health is on the right track!