If you have an infant at home who struggles to latch when nursing or seems fussier than most, they may have a tongue-tie. This occurs when the strip of flesh beneath their tongue, referred to as the frenulum, is too thick or short, restricting the muscle’s range of movement. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to poor weight gain, speech impediments, jaw pain, and other oral health concerns.
Many pediatric dentists can provide a frenectomy that loosens or removes the restrictive band of tissue. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect before, during, and after their visit!
How Can I Prepare My Child for Their Tongue-Tie Treatment?
It’s natural to want to prepare your child for their upcoming appointment, but you might also feel anxious if you’re unsure what’s involved in this treatment. First, remember that your infant will likely pick up on your energy; if you’re nervous, they likely will be, too. Taking a few deep breaths to lower your heart rate can also help them regulate their feelings.
Then, you might help prepare them by giving them the recommended dose of an over-the-counter medication made for children, which can help prevent potential aches afterward. Also, be sure to follow any pre-operative instructions from your provider, such as not feeding your little one immediately prior to their appointment to avoid triggering a gag reflex.
What Happens During Their Procedure?
Depending on your provider, parents might be asked to hold their infant, but you might also be advised to remain in the waiting room. Typically, your pediatric dentist begins the procedure by ensuring your child is comfortable, then applies a numbing cream to the affected area.
Next, they use a specially designed laser scalpel to gently remove just the right amount of tissue, minimizing discomfort compared to traditional methods. This method also helps cauterize the incision immediately, resulting in less bleeding and shorter recovery times.
What is Recovery Like After Addressing a Tongue-Tie?
Your pediatric dentist will provide post-op instructions to follow to help your child’s mouth heal as quickly as possible while avoiding potential complications. There’s usually no need to avoid nursing or feeding afterward, and any discomfort from the procedure is likely to fade within 24 to 48 hours. You may also be asked to perform oral exercises and stretches with your baby daily for a few weeks to help prevent the frenulum from regrowing with another restriction.
If you’re unsure whether your child requires a frenectomy, it may be time to schedule a consultation with their oral healthcare provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. Amar Singh is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist who is passionate about addressing lip and tongue-ties to restore children’s oral health. He earned his dental doctorate from the Howard University College of Dentistry and then completed a pediatric residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Today, he utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate, comfortable procedures while minimizing potential risks of complications. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (215) 874-3787.