Why frenectomy procedures may be recommended:

• Improved Oral Function
  • Speech: A tight or short lingual frenulum (tongue-tie) can restrict tongue movement, leading to speech difficulties. A frenectomy can improve articulation and pronunciation.
  • Eating: Restricted tongue movement can interfere with breastfeeding, chewing and swallowing. A frenectomy can facilitate better control of food in the mouth and easier swallowing.
  • Airway: A restricted tongue can prevent proper development of the palate/nasal structures and obstruct proper breathing leading to sleep related issues down the road.
• Dental Health
  • Orthodontic Issues: A tight labial frenulum can cause spacing issues between the front teeth or contribute to a gap (diastema). Frenectomy can aid in orthodontic treatment and help close gaps between teeth.
  • Gum Health: A frenulum that is too tight or improperly positioned can pull on the gums, leading to gum recession, discomfort, and increased risk of periodontal disease.
•  Breastfeeding
  • Infants: A tongue-tie and/or lip tie can make breastfeeding difficult for infants, as it may prevent them from latching properly. This can lead to inadequate nutrition and feeding issues, as well as pain or discomfort for the mother. A frenectomy can help improve an infant’s ability to breastfeed effectively.
•  Comfort and Quality of Life
  • Pain and Discomfort: A restrictive frenulum can cause discomfort or pain during daily activities such as speaking, eating, and oral hygiene. A frenectomy can alleviate these symptoms and improve overall comfort.
•  Aesthetic Concerns
  • Appearance: In some cases, a prominent or tight frenulum can affect the appearance of the mouth or teeth. A frenectomy can improve the aesthetic look, which can be important for personal confidence and self-esteem.
•  Orthodontic Retention
  • Post-Braces: After orthodontic treatment, a frenectomy might be necessary to ensure that the teeth remain in their new positions and to prevent relapse, especially if a tight frenulum contributed to the original spacing or alignment issues.

Overall, a frenectomy can have significant benefits for oral health, function, and quality of life, making it an important procedure in both pediatric and adult patients.

The Power of Cold Lasers in Frenectomy Procedures

“Cold” lasers, also known as low-level lasers, have transformed the field of dentistry by offering precise, effective, and comfortable treatments. Unlike traditional (“hot”) lasers, cold lasers operate at lower temperatures, minimizing tissue damage and promoting faster healing. Here’s why cold laser frenectomy is the preferred choice:

• Minimally Invasive: Cold lasers ensure minimal discomfort and reduced risk of infection.
• Precision: The laser targets only the affected tissue, preserving surrounding healthy tissues.
• Faster Recovery: Patients experience quicker healing times and less post-operative pain.
• Reduced Bleeding: The laser cauterizes blood vessels during the procedure, leading to less bleeding.

What to Expect During the Tongue Tie Procedure

The cold laser frenectomy procedure is quick, typically lasting around 5-15 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation and Examination: Our dental professionals will assess your child’s condition and determine if a frenectomy is necessary and discuss post-operative care.
2. Preparation: A local and/or topical anesthetic is applied to ensure comfort.
3. Laser Procedure: The cold laser precisely removes or alters the frenulum.
4. Post-Procedure Care: Patients receive aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent infection.
5. A referral and/or follow-up with a myofunctional specialist and occupational therapist may be indicated post frenectomy treatment for optimal results

Dental Insurance Accepted

We proudly accept a wide range of dental insurance plans for frenectomy procedures, making accessible dental care a priority. Many dental plans cover a portion of the cost. Please note that our office does not accept medical coverage.

Why Choose Northfield Pediatric Dentistry?

• Experienced Professionals: Our team of skilled dentists has extensive experience in performing cold laser frenectomy procedures.
• Insurance Acceptance: Our office accepts dental insurance and will provide the necessary medical reimbursement forms to ensure the highest level of coverage.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest dental technology to ensure the best treatment outcomes.
• Patient-Centered Care: Your child’s comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Expert Pediatric Dental Care Awaits!

If your child is experiencing symptoms related to tongue-tie, lip-tie, or other frenulum-related issues, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our advanced cold laser frenectomy procedures can improve the oral health and quality of life for your child.