Is your child struggling with speech issues or facing orthodontic hurdles? A frenectomy might just be the game-changer you’re searching for. This dental procedure zooms in on the frenulum, that tiny band of tissue in the mouth. Let’s jump into what a frenectomy involves and the smile-worthy benefits it could bring to your little one.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy isn’t as daunting as it sounds. It’s a minor surgical move that tweaks or removes the frenulum. A frenulum is that small tissue fold connecting parts of the mouth like the tongue to the bottom of the mouth or the upper lip to the gum. When this tissue is a bit too tight or not quite in the right spot, it can stir up a mix of dental and speech issues.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
When it comes to frenectomies, there are two main types to know about: lingual and labial. A lingual frenectomy deals with tongue mobility issues (‘tongue tie’), while a labial frenectomy focuses on how the upper lip attaches to the gum. Both involve a careful edit of the problematic tissue to better oral function.
Signs to Consider a Frenectomy
Why consider a frenectomy? There’s a variety of reasons, from speech bumps in the road, trouble breastfeeding due to limited tongue movement, orthodontic challenges because of where that frenulum is sitting, to gum recession stress from a tense labial frenulum. Your dentist will do a full exam to see if a frenectomy is the best move.
Dental Benefits of Frenectomy
A frenectomy can be a win for dental health that sticks around for the long haul:
- Improved Speech: By sorting out tongue movement limits, a frenectomy can help smooth out speech challenges.
- Orthodontic Assistance:
- Gum Health: It can also step in to prevent or fix gum recession caused by a tight labial frenulum, cheering on better gum health.
Schedule a Dental Appointment at Storybook Smiles
If you’re thinking your child might be facing frenulum-related issues, why not drop by our office? Our team is here to help figure out if a frenectomy is the right path to a happier, healthier smile!
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