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When the subject of dental procedures comes up, most individuals think of treatment involving teeth. While the hard tissue of your mouth is extremely important, positive oral care in the long term can only be achieved when the hard tissue and soft tissue work together.
When this isn’t the case, it can manifest itself in the form of a tongue-tie or lip-tie. At East Mahogany Dental, we offer tongue-tie and lip-tie releases to help young patients learn to eat and speak better.
What Is a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie Release?’
A tongue-tie is a genetic condition that presents itself at birth. It occurs when the soft tissue in the mouth is tightened and limits the mobility of the tongue or the lips or both. The lack of mobility can cause problems with infants being unable to latch when breastfeeding as well as contribute to speech and dental issues in the future.
The procedure that can provide a solution to tongue-ties is known as frenectomy. Using advanced dental lasers, the frenulum (which is the restricted soft tissue underneath the tongue) is loosened, allowing for a full range of motion for the tongue and lips.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs a Frenectomy?
To determine if a tongue-tie release is a correct choice for your child, you should come in for a consultation. However, to help you decide whether or not you should schedule this consultation, see if any of the following apply:
- Does your child have difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding?
- Do your feeding times seem prolonged?
- Does your child require frequent feedings?
- Does your child appear unsatisfied despite long feeding and adequate milk supply?
- Are there symptoms of colic or reflux issues?
- Have you noticed your child having trouble gaining weight?
- Does it seem like your child is having difficulty holding onto a pacifier?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of the questions above, schedule a consultation with East Mahogany Dental. We can accurately diagnose the issue if a tongue or lip-tie is present, and find a solution that can improve your breastfeeding relationship with your baby.
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What Are the Benefits of Tongue-Tie Releases?
Frenectomy is a quick procedure using advanced dental technology available, setting up your child for excellent oral health in the future. In addition to allowing full range of motion for both tongue and lips, other benefits of this procedure include:
- Allowing your child to latch/nurse more easily.
- Alleviate breast pain when the baby is nursing.
- Allow more successful breastfeeding so your child can develop properly.
- Decrease the risk of breast infections due to difficulties nursing.
- Alleviate reflux, gassiness, and colic for your child.
It is also important to note that children with tongue or lip-ties have an increased risk to develop disorders affecting their jawbone. This can greatly impact their ability to smile, chew, talk, and even breathe as they develop. However, a frenectomy removes these risks and promotes proper dental health.
Is There a Recovery Period for My Child?
We understand that making any decision regarding your child’s health is important. That is why we want to assure you that a frenectomy is a quick, accurate, and painless procedure that is performed in-office.
Though they may experience some residual pain for a few days, your child will be able to nurse immediately after the procedure and get used to the new feel of more effective breastfeeding soon. If they are fussy and won’t take to the breast, try giving them some children’s ibuprofen or Tylenol to help with the pain.
Learn More About Tongue-Tie Release by Calling Today
At East Mahogany Dental, we want to set up all of our patients for success when it comes to their dental health, no matter their age. This is a promise that we’ve kept to all residents of Calgary and the surrounding areas by offering a diverse array of treatment options, including tongue-tie releases.
So if you are a resident of Calgary or the surrounding areas and want to learn how tongue/lip releases can promote healthier development and oral care for your child, contact us today to schedule a consultation.