How to Know If Your Child Needs a Frenectomy

Has your pediatric dentist or pediatrician recommended a frenectomy? Or have your group of mothers of girlfriends been talking about how helpful it was for them and their child? Or have you read about it on your favorite parenting blog or Facebook group?

A frenectomy is more than the latest trend. It’s a useful procedure that could make breastfeeding – as well as eating, drinking, and talking easier. But how do you know if your child needs one?

Does Your Child Need a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a treatment for lip or tongue-tied patients. What does it mean to be lip-tied or tongue-tied? A flap of skin attaches the lips and the tongue to the gums. This skin is the tie, and if it’s too short or otherwise hinders natural and necessary movement of the mouth, lips and tongue, it can be released, in a procedure called a frenectomy. This gives the lips, tongue and mouth greater range of motion. 

How Does a Frenectomy Work?

Your pediatric dentist can perform a frenectomy, on the same day as a consultation, if you wish. Although the name can be intimidating, a frenectomy is a quick and simple process. You may see results as soon as the next time you breastfeed. We recommend finding a pediatric dentist who provides laser treatment, like we do here at Smiles, to shorten the healing time. 

Is a Frenectomy Right For You?

Speak with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist about whether a frenectomy is right for your child. A few symptoms might include having trouble breastfeeding, losing or not gaining weight, colic or gassiness, or clicking sound when sucking. Symptoms in a breastfeeding mother might also signal whether your infant needs a frenectomy. These include pain while breastfeeding, engorgement, mastitis, or infection. If you are having trouble with breastfeeding, talk with your medical or dental professionals to see if frenectomy could help. 

Other Situations

Older children and adults who are having trouble with speaking, eating, or drinking or other oral problems may want to consider a frenectomy. If you aren’t sure if you or your child are lip-tied or tongue-tied, there are some symptoms to think about. Gum recession, tooth decay, or trouble keeping the area clean may be signs that there is not enough space or movement in the area of the tie. 

Is a frenectomy right for your child or you? If you’re experiencing some of the struggles or symptoms above, speak with your pediatric dentist. This simple procedure could be the answer you’re looking for. Call us today for a free consultation.