If you or your child are suffering from the dangerous side-effects of tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), a frenectomy can be a life-changing solution. Here’s what you can expect from this treatment, and how it can help make everyday activities like eating and speaking so much easier!
What is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie is a condition that affects between four and ten percent of the population. Present at birth, it occurs when the frenulum of the tongue (the piece of skin that connects it to the bottom of the mouth) is too tight. In normal cases, it thins out over time, but when it doesn’t this can cause what is known as tongue tie.
Unfortunately, if left untreated, tongue tie can cause a variety of problems for the patient as they grow. In babies, it can make breastfeeding difficult, causing dehydration, feeding problems, weight loss, damage to the tongue muscles, damaged salivary glands, and even breathing struggles.
How Can My Dentist Treat Tongue Tie?
Your dentist can quickly and nearly painlessly correct a tongue tie in patients of all ages with the help of a procedure called a frenectomy. This treatment uses a soft-tissue laser to cut the frenulum and allow the tongue to move freely. Because it does not rely on a scalpel, laser frenectomies are more precise, bleed less, and are much more comfortable than other types of treatment. In fact, your child will likely only need a local anesthetic and can resume feeding as soon as the procedure is over. They may experience some mild soreness over the next day or two but should begin to enjoy the procedure’s many benefits immediately!
Remember, your child is suffering from the dangerous side effects of ankyloglossia, it could cause a number of problems throughout their life, including malnourishment and speech and breathing difficulties. Don’t let tongue prevent them from thriving. Speak to your dentist today about the benefits of a laser frenectomy procedure.
About Dr. Voller
In his more than 40 years as a dentist, Dr. Ray Voller has earned a reputation for being skilled, caring, and compassionate. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Since then and is the recipient of the prestigious Fellowship and Mastership Awards from the Academy of General Dentistry and has proudly been performing frenectomies for over 30 years. If you would like to learn more about this procedure and see if you or your child are a good candidate, please schedule an appointment with Voller Dentistry today by visiting our website or calling us directly at 724-543-4948.