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Pediatric Frenectomies
Pediatric frenectomies in Colorado Springs
For some, breastfeeding can be a wonderful time to bond with your child. For others, it can be a painful, frustrating experience that leaves you feeling drained. If you’re wondering if there’s a better way, the answer is yes. Frenectomies can help keep you comfortable and ensure your child is getting proper nutrition while feeding.
Does my child really need a frenectomy?
Many parents are aware of feeding issues before coming to us, but being told that your infant needs a surgical procedure may still sound scary. However, frenectomies are simple, safe, and effective with minimal aftercare. Plus, with a conservative approach to pediatric dentistry, your doctor will only recommend frenectomies when deemed necessary. If you’ve been struggling with breastfeeding or noticing popping or clicking sounds while your child is feeding, it may be time to come in for a frenectomy consultation.
The Frenectomy Process
LOCAL ANESTHETIC
First, a consultation is necessary to determine if your child requires a frenectomy. You’ll discuss your concerns and experiences with Dr. Gonzalez and your child will receive an oral exam. Our Lincoln pediatric dentist will examine their mouth for signs of tongue and lip ties, and determine whether or not a frenectomy is the best option. To begin the surgery, the area will be numbed using local anesthetic to ensure your child feels absolutely no pain or discomfort throughout the procedure.
Releasing the tissue
Our gentle, yet effective laser can correct tongue and lip ties with no pain or discomfort and promote faster healing. The entire process takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
AFTERCARE & HEALING
With a laser frenectomy, there is no need for stitches or sutures. Proper aftercare includes cleaning the treatment site at least twice per day. Your child’s dentist may also recommend tongue or lip stretches to ensure that the frenulum heals properly and does not reattach.
What is recovery and aftercare like for frenectomies?
To care for the surgical site, Dr. Libby and Dr. Colby Beck will recommend some stretches for the tongue and/or lips to be done multiple times a day while healing occurs. These stretches will help ensure that when the frenulum heals, it will not reattach and restrict your child’s oral range of motion. Follow the instructions given to you and make sure you regularly perform all stretches recommended to you by your child’s dentist.
