WHAT IS A FRENECTOMY?

A frenectomy is a procedure to repair the frenum, a band of tissue that connects various parts of the mouth, by eliminating its restriction. Some people are born with a frenum that is too short or too thick, which can prevent the tongue from moving as freely as it should. The goal is to remove excess tissue from the frenum to allow a greater range of motion in the tongue or lip. This can be performed with scissors or a laser and can generally be completed in minutes.

The age at which a frenectomy can be completed depends on the nature of symptoms that the patient develops. There are no age or size limitations that would prevent a patient from having the procedure done, but the health of the patient and any necessary sedation or anesthesia options would be discussed at a consultation appointment. For newborns and infants, the procedure can be completed as soon as they are discharged from the hospital.

WHAT IS A LIP TIE?

A lip tie occurs when the tissue that connects the lip to the upper gums is too thick or too tight. Lip tie symptoms are mostly related to the frenum behind the upper lip, however the frenum behind the lower lip may create symptoms in older patients.

A lip tie can manifest in latching difficulties in newborns and infants. The procedure can be completed soon after birth.

WHAT IS A TONGUE TIE?

Tongue tie occurs when the length or location of the lingual frenum or location of the lingual frenum restricts the range of motion of the tongue.

WHAT ARE TONGUE TIE SYMPTOMS?

A tongue that appears notched, or heart shaped when stuck out is a sign of a tongue tie. Other symptoms include difficulty sticking the tongue out past the lower front teeth, difficulty lifting the tongue to the upper teeth, or moving the tongue from side to side. Tongue ties in newborns and infants can cause difficulty with breastfeeding. Toddlers with tongue tie may have symptoms that include problems with eating, speaking, brushing their teeth, and swallowing.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS A TONGUE OR LIP TIE PROBLEM?

The diagnosis for a tongue or lip tie is provided during a physical exam that includes a functional assessment of the patient. Schedule a consultation with one of our doctors to determine if a tongue or lip tie problem is affecting your child or infant.

SYMPTOMS OF TONGUE AND/OR LIP TIE IN INFANTS CAN INCLUDE:

• Poor latch

• Reflux symptoms

• Baby falls asleep while nursing

• Colic symptoms

• Poor weight gain

• Continuous feedings

• Gumming and/or chewing of the nipple

• Difficulty taking a pacifier or bottle

• Creased, cracked, bruised or blistered nipples

• Nipple thrush

• Bleeding nipples

• Infected nipples or breasts

• Plugged ducts

• Incomplete breast drainage

• Mastitis (inflammation of the breast)

RECOVERY

After laser frenectomy surgery your child may be fussy, irritable, or fatigued. Infants are able to nurse immediately after the procedure. Our doctors will demonstrate and discuss recovery protocols.