Gentle Solutions for Tongue and Lip Ties
At Canton Kid’s Dentistry, we understand that conditions like tongue-tie and lip-tie can impact a child’s ability to eat, speak, and thrive. Our advanced laser frenectomy procedure offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution to help your child achieve optimal oral function and overall well-being.
Understanding Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie
Tongue-tie (Ankyloglossia) and lip-tie occur when the frenulum—a small fold of tissue connecting the tongue or lip to the mouth—is too tight or short. This restriction can lead to:
- Feeding Difficulties — Infants may struggle with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, leading to poor weight gain.
- Speech Challenges — Older children might experience delayed speech development or articulation issues.
- Oral Hygiene Problems — Limited tongue or lip movement can hinder effective cleaning, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Orthodontic Concerns — Tight frenula can contribute to spacing issues or misalignment of teeth.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications and support your child’s development.
What Is a Laser Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a procedure that releases the tight frenulum, allowing for improved movement of the tongue or lip. At Canton Kid’s Dentistry, we utilize state-of-the-art laser technology to perform this procedure with precision and care.
Benefits of Laser Frenectomy:
- Minimally Invasive — The laser precisely targets the frenulum without affecting surrounding tissues.
- Reduced Discomfort — Most patients experience minimal pain during and after the procedure.
- No Stitches Required — The laser cauterizes as it cuts, eliminating the need for sutures.
- Faster Healing — Patients typically recover quickly, with less swelling and a lower risk of infection.
- Immediate Results — Many children show instant improvement in feeding or speech abilities.
Our laser approach ensures a gentle experience, making it suitable even for infants.
Who Can Benefit from a Laser Frenectomy?
Infants may benefit if they:
- Have difficulty latching during breastfeeding.
- Exhibit poor weight gain.
- Experience excessive gas or reflux due to swallowing air.
Children and Adolescents may benefit if they:
- Have speech delays or articulation problems.
- Struggle with eating certain foods.
- Experience social discomfort due to speech issues.
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, a consultation with our pediatric dental team can determine if a laser frenectomy is appropriate.
The Laser Frenectomy Procedure at Canton Kid’s Dentistry
- Comprehensive Evaluation — We begin with a thorough examination to assess the frenulum and discuss your child’s symptoms.
- Customized Treatment Plan — Our team develops a personalized approach, considering your child’s specific needs and comfort.
- Gentle Procedure — Using advanced laser technology, we carefully release the tight frenulum. The procedure is quick, often completed in minutes.
- Post-Procedure Guidance — We provide detailed aftercare instructions and support to ensure a smooth recovery.
Our compassionate team ensures that both you and your child feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Aftercare and Recovery
Post-procedure care is straightforward:
- Feeding — Infants can usually breastfeed or bottle-feed immediately after the procedure.
- Diet — Older children should stick to soft foods for the first day.
- Oral Hygiene — Maintain regular brushing and flossing, avoiding the treated area for the first 24 hours.
- Follow-Up — We schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Most children resume normal activities within a day, experiencing significant improvements in function and comfort.
Why Choose Canton Kid’s Dentistry for Laser Frenectomy?
- Pediatric Expertise — Our dentists specialize in children’s oral health, ensuring age-appropriate care.
- Advanced Technology — We utilize cutting-edge laser equipment for precise and gentle treatment.
- Family-Centered Approach — We involve parents in every step, fostering trust and confidence.
- Comfortable Environment — Our child-friendly office is designed to make dental visits pleasant and stress-free.
We are committed to providing exceptional care that supports your child’s health and happiness.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Canton Kid’s Dentistry to schedule an appointment and learn how our laser frenectomy procedure can benefit your child’s oral health and development.