Frenectomy in Peterborough, ON

Whether it’s a lip or tongue tie, a frenectomy can improve your comfort, speech, and overall oral function. Dr. Matthew Yoon and our compassionate team are here to offer you effective and minimally invasive solutions to correct frenulum-related issues for better oral health.

Frenectomy for Children at Lansdowne Place Dental

A frenectomy is a quick and simple procedure used to address tongue-tie (when the tissue under the tongue is too tight) or lip-tie (when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight). These conditions can interfere with essential functions such as breastfeeding, proper oral development, and even speech later on.

For babies, a frenectomy can greatly improve breastfeeding, allowing for better latching and reducing discomfort for both mother and child. In older children, a frenectomy can help alleviate speech issues, prevent dental misalignments, and improve overall oral function.

At Lansdowne Place Dental, we use the latest techniques and technology, including laser frenectomies, to ensure that the procedure is as comfortable, quick, and minimally invasive as possible for your child.

The Frenectomy Process for Children: What to Expect

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

Dr. Yoon will begin by evaluating your child’s oral health and assessing the frenum that may be causing issues. During the consultation, we will discuss your child’s symptoms, such as difficulty breastfeeding, speech delays, or oral concerns. If necessary, we may take a quick look at your child’s dental development to see if a frenectomy is the right course of action.

The Frenectomy Procedure

Frenectomy is a fast and simple procedure that typically takes just a few minutes. We offer both laser frenectomy and traditional surgical frenectomy, depending on your child’s needs and age.

  • For Babies: If your baby has a lip-tie or tongue-tie that’s making breastfeeding difficult, we will perform the frenectomy quickly and gently. Laser frenectomy is often used for babies because it minimizes discomfort, bleeding, and healing time. This procedure is usually done without the need for stitches.

  • For Older Children: In cases where the issue is affecting speech or causing dental problems, the procedure may involve a bit more preparation. We use laser technology or traditional tools to release the restrictive frenum, providing lasting relief.

We will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring your child is as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. The entire process typically lasts only 5-10 minutes, and your child may be able to return to their normal activities right afterward.

Aftercare and Healing

After the frenectomy, most children experience minimal discomfort. You may notice some mild swelling or tenderness in the affected area, but this usually resolves within a few days. For babies, there may be some fussiness, but this typically passes quickly.

Dr. Yoon will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing, including tips on feeding, oral hygiene, and any follow-up visits to monitor recovery. It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions closely to ensure optimal healing and long-term success of the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a frenectomy, and why does my child need one?

A frenectomy is a procedure that releases a tight or restrictive frenum, the band of tissue under the tongue or upper lip. For children, a frenectomy is often performed to address tongue-tie or lip-tie, conditions that can interfere with breastfeeding, speech, and oral health.

When should my baby have a frenectomy?

If your baby is having trouble breastfeeding due to difficulty latching, tongue-tie or lip-tie may be the cause. We recommend having your baby evaluated by a dentist or pediatrician around the time they are 1–2 weeks old to determine if a frenectomy is necessary.

Is the frenectomy procedure painful for my child?

The frenectomy procedure is generally not painful. We use local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring your child is comfortable throughout the process. For babies, the procedure is very quick, and there’s typically minimal discomfort afterward. Older children may experience mild soreness, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

How long does it take for my child to recover after a frenectomy?

Recovery time is usually very quick. Most babies are able to breastfeed comfortably right after the procedure. For older children, any discomfort usually subsides within a few days. Dr. Yoon will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Are there any risks associated with a frenectomy?

Frenectomy is a low-risk procedure, especially when performed with the latest laser technology. It’s a minimally invasive procedure, and complications are rare. Dr. Yoon will thoroughly explain the risks and benefits during your consultation to ensure you’re fully informed.

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