Frenectomy
If your infant has difficulty breastfeeding, they may have a tight frenum. This condition can lead to additional problems in the future.
A frenectomy is a procedure that can improve an infant's ability to breastfeed and offer a host of additional benefits for life.
Dr. Ashley Ramsey in Rowlett, TX, uses the latest laser technology to perform safe and comfortable frenectomies.
What Is the Frenum?
The frenum, also called the frenulum, is binding tissue that can be found in the mouth. The labial frenum connects the upper lip to the gum tissue above the front teeth. The lingual frenum connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. The frena provide stability to the upper lip, lower lip, and tongue, but if they are too tight, problems can arise.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy in our Rowlett, TX, office uses a soft tissue laser to alter a frenum that is too tight or restrictive. This procedure is often recommended for affected infants because the condition can cause difficulty with breastfeeding. It can also lead to other problems like speech difficulty, dental decay, and digestive problems later in life.
The Procedure Timeline
A frenectomy for your infant will consist of these steps:
A frenectomy is a holistic treatment that can have benefits on a person's physical, mental, and emotional state for the rest of their life.
Recovering From a Frenectomy
Because our Rowlett, TX, dentists use gentle techniques and a soft tissue laser to perform frenectomies, recovery should be fast and comfortable. Some simple things you can do to aid in a successful recovery include:
Keep the Area Clean
Keep the area around the frenum clean and make sure no food remains near the treatment site. Be sure to keep up with your baby's regular dental care.
Practice Stretches
The mouth heals quickly, and the frenulum can reattach, so stretches are integral to the healing process. We recommend using clean hands to stretch the upper lip or tongue every four hours for four weeks. Our dental team will give you detailed instructions after your baby's frenectomy.
Attend Appointments
You will have to return to our dentistry office in Rowlett, TX, for follow-up appointments. Our dentist will examine the treatment site to ensure there are no complications and the area is healing properly.
Frenectomies and Orthodontics
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Though our Texas dental practice typically performs frenectomies on infants, it is often performed on children prior to receiving orthodontics. A frenulum that is too short or too long can cause the jaw or teeth to become displaced even after undergoing orthodontic treatment, so a frenectomy is often advised. This can help ensure the success of this dentistry treatment and maintain your child's straight teeth into adulthood.
Texas Smiles With Help From Our Dental Team
Maureen Celestine
2022
I have been bringing my kids here since they were little goobers. We always have the best experience. The dentists are caring and thoughtful, and want nothing but the best for their patients. I highly recommend
View on GoogleSherissa Goodson
2022
HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE! They took excellent care of my daughter. She had to have some oral work done and Dr. Ashley Ramsey and her staff were the absolute best... Gave me all the instructions to care for her and even called to check on her after. Excellent customer service all the way around here.
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