Frenectomy in Durango, CO
Frenectomy treatment for tongue-tie or lip-tie is a simple surgical procedure which can be performed on both children and adults. Tongue tie can make speech or swallowing uncomfortable and interfere with the fit of braces or dentures.
Located in Durango, CO, West Dental Implants offers top-tier dental services to our local community. We are a full-service dental practice with years of experience providing quality dentistry for patients in Durango, Colorado. We offer various dental services, including implant dentistry, sedation dentistry, and full mouth restorations.
What is a frenectomy?
Frenectomy is a surgical treatment that removes the frenum tissue (the band of tissue connecting the upper lip to the nose) to correct a cleft palate defect.
The frenulum is an elastic band of tissue that connects the upper lip to the roof of the mouth. It helps keep the lips closed during speech and eating. The frenulum is surgically removed if it causes problems such as discomfort when speaking or chewing food.
How does a frenectomy work?
A frenectomy is performed by cutting through the frenulum tissue. The surgeon makes an incision on the inside of the lip and cuts through the frenulum. After this, he/she pulls the edges of the cut together to close the wound. A suture may also be used to hold the edges together.
After the operation, your doctor will apply a topical antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Ensure you don’t touch the area where the incision was made until the stitches dissolve. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to ease any discomfort after the surgery.
Signs That You Need a Frenectomy
If you have any of these signs, it may be time for your doctor to perform a frenectomy.
Difficulty Pronouncing Certain Sounds
If you notice you or your child are having difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, like "r" or "l," it could be because of the frenulum.
A Large Gap Between the Two Front Teeth
You notice a large gap between his/her two front teeth, which could be caused by excessive tissue.
Painful Tongue Tie
You notice a painful tongue tie while trying to speak. Frenectomies can improve tongue mobility and the ability to pronounce.
Excessive Drooling & Difficulty Eating
You notice excessive drooling while eating or speaking. A tight frenulum can make swallowing difficult and therefore eating a challenge.
Recessing Gums
Because the labial and frenulum (both upper and lower) are close to the edge of your gum tissue, if it is too short or tight, it creates extra tension. That tension can cause gum recession if not corrected.
Do you need a laser frenectomy to ease the tongue tie?
Laser frenectomies are becoming more popular than traditional frenectomies. They are less invasive and require only one visit to the dentist’s office. However, they do not always provide the same results as traditional frenectomies because laser procedures cannot remove all of the frenum tissue. Talk to our dentist about the best dental procedure for you.
Is there anything else I need to know about a frenectomy?
You may have questions about how long the recovery period will take, what type of anesthesia is used, and whether you will need additional dental services. Many factors determine how quickly you recover from a frenectomy. Some people heal faster than others. Our doctor will tell you exactly what to expect after the surgery.
Our team is here to provide the best dental care in the Durango area. Your dental health is our top priority. If you think you might benefit from a laser frenectomy, contact us today at (970) 259-5600.
