If your child has been diagnosed with a lip or tongue tie, KIDS – Healthy Kids Nurtured By Nature can provide frenectomy procedures to release the tie and restore oral function. Dr Hany (Registered Dentist) and our team understand that parents want to know exactly what to expect when it comes to their child’s care. Let’s walk through the frenectomy procedure together so you can feel confident and prepared.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that releases the restrictive tissue causing a lip or tongue tie. The frenum is a small fold of tissue that connects the lip to the gum or the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When this tissue is too tight or thick, it can restrict movement and cause problems with feeding, speech, or oral development.
The frenectomy procedure gently releases this tissue, allowing your child’s tongue or lip to move freely and function properly. It’s one of the most effective ways to address the challenges that tongue ties and lip ties can create.
Before the Procedure
During your initial consultation at our Mackay practice, Dr Hany will thoroughly assess your child’s oral anatomy and discuss whether tongue tie surgery is the right option. We’ll answer all your questions and ensure you understand the benefits and what recovery will look like.
We’ll also provide specific instructions on how to prepare your child for the procedure, including:
- Feeding guidelines before the appointment
- What to bring on the day
- How to help your child feel comfortable and calm
During the Frenectomy Procedure
The frenectomy procedure is quick and straightforward. Dr Hany uses advanced laser technology, which offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods:
Benefits of Laser Frenectomy
- Minimal bleeding
- Reduced discomfort
- Faster healing time
- Lower risk of infection
- No need for stitches
The procedure itself typically takes only a few minutes. Your child may receive a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring they’re as comfortable as possible. You’ll likely be able to hold your baby or comfort your older child throughout the process.
After the Procedure
Recovery from tongue tie surgery is generally smooth and quick. Your child may be fussy for a day or two, but most little ones bounce back remarkably fast. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, which typically include:
- Specific stretching exercises to prevent reattachment
- Pain management recommendations
- Feeding guidance
- Signs to watch for that would require follow-up
It’s important to follow these aftercare instructions carefully, especially the stretching exercises. While they might seem uncomfortable at first, they’re essential for ensuring the tissue doesn’t heal back together.
What Results Can You Expect?
Many parents notice improvements in feeding within days of the frenectomy. For older children, speech improvements may take a bit longer as they learn to use their newly mobile tongue. With proper aftercare and sometimes follow-up therapy (like speech or feeding therapy), most children experience significant positive changes.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you suspect your child has a lip or tongue tie, or if you’ve already received a diagnosis and want to learn more about what a frenectomy is and whether it’s right for your family, we’re here to help. At KIDS – Healthy Kids Nurtured By Nature in Mackay, Dr Hany provides compassionate, expert care with your child’s comfort as our top priority.
Call us today at (61) 7 4942 5111 to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to answer all your questions and help you feel confident about your child’s treatment journey.
