Infant and Children Frenectomies

Understanding Frenectomies

Infant and children frenectomies in Seattle and Renton are simple, safe, and effective surgical procedures that involve removing or modifying a frenum—a small fold of tissue in various parts of the mouth. Most commonly, frenectomies are performed to release a tight frenum under the tongue (lingual frenectomy) or the upper lip (labial frenectomy). These issues are often referred to as tongue-tie and lip-tie, respectively.

Importance of Frenectomies

In infants and children, a restrictive frenum can lead to several issues if not addressed promptly. Tongue-tie can interfere with breastfeeding in infants, causing feeding difficulties, poor weight gain, and frustration for both mother and child. In older children, it can impair speech development and oral hygiene and cause dental problems such as gaps between the front teeth. Lip-tie can also pose challenges similar to those resulting from tongue-tie. Our goal at A Kids Place Dentistry for Children is to ensure that these conditions do not hinder your child’s development.

Signs Your Child May Need a Frenectomy

Identifying whether your child might benefit from a frenectomy is crucial to addressing potential issues early. Some signs to look out for include:

Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
Slow or stalled weight gain in infants
Speech delays or impairments
Difficulty moving the tongue
Dental issues such as gaps between teeth

We should schedule a consultation with our team if any of these signs are present.

The Frenectomy Procedure

At A Kids Place Dentistry for Children, our frenectomy procedures are meticulously planned and executed to ensure safety, comfort, and effectiveness. Here is what you can expect from the process:

Initial Consultation

The first step involves a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s oral health. During this visit, we assess the frenum and determine if a frenectomy is necessary. We will then discuss the procedure with you, address any concerns, and provide detailed pre- and post-operative care information.

The Procedure

Frenectomies at our practice are conducted using state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and optimal outcomes. Laser technology is often employed, allowing for a precise incision with minimal bleeding and swift healing. The procedure typically takes a short time and is well-tolerated by children.

Post-operative Care

After the procedure, our dental team provides detailed aftercare instructions to support your child’s recovery. Post-operative care is crucial to ensure the site’s successful healing and prevent complications. We will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the healing process and address any questions you may have.

Benefits of Choosing A Kids Place Dentistry for Children

At A Kids Place Dentistry for Children, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to the unique needs of our young patients. Here are a few reasons why parents trust us with their children’s frenectomy procedures:

Expertise and Experience

Our pediatric dentists are extensively trained and experienced in performing frenectomies. We stay at the forefront of dental advancements and continuously refine our techniques to ensure the best outcomes.

Child-Centric Approach

Understanding that dental visits can be daunting for children, our practice is designed to create a welcoming and comforting environment. Our team is skilled in calming anxious young patients and ensuring a positive experience.

Compassionate Care

We recognize parents’ concerns when considering any surgical procedure for their child. Our dentists and staff offer compassionate care and clear communication throughout the process, ensuring you are well informed and comfortable with every step.

Advanced Technology

Utilizing the latest dental technologies ensures that our frenectomy procedures are efficient and precise and cause minimal discomfort, contributing to your child’s swift and smooth recovery.