Frenectomies

Also known as a “tongue tie” or “lip tie”, your frenum is the soft tissue that attaches and holds your lip, tongue and cheeks in place. Some frenums are located in the wrong position or the tissue is too thick, which can cause restriction and prevent optimal oral functioning. We call this phenomenon “Tethered Oral Tissues”.

Here is a list of the potential effects of untreated tethered oral tissues:

• Infant nursing/feeding issues (both nursing and bottle feeding)

• Picky and textural eating (avoidance of hard crunchy foods, kids may only want to eat soft foods that are easier to swallow without chewing)

• Choking

• Speech concerns (both pronunciation and articulation)

• Mouth breathing

• OSA (Obstructive sleep apnea)

• Increase risk for cavities (unable to clear food from the mouth with the tongue and may kind brushing uncomfortable)

• Hyperactive gag reflex

• High arched palate, future orthodontic issues

The photos below show examples of both normal and restricted tongue movements. Typically patients that present with Grades 3-4 have restricted tongue mobility and benefit from a tongue tie release. Some patients with Grade 2 mobility may also benefit depending on their symptoms. Infants that have ties and are struggling to nurse or bottle feed are also candidates for the procedure. At Sunrise Pediatric Dentistry, we assess every patient for tethered oral tissues as part of our comprehensive exams.

Frenectomy Patient Hand outs

• Waterlase Laser Dentistry for Frenectomies

• Pre-Op Tongue Tie Release (Infant)

• Pre-Op Tongue Tie Release (Child)

• Post-OP Exercises- Newborn/Infant

• Post-Op Excersises- Toddler/Child