Tongue ties are a condition where the lingual frenum, a thin tissue attaching the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is too short. This can cause difficulties with feeding, speech, and dental health, with potentially long-lasting effects on development and growth in children. One solution for tongue ties is a simple surgical procedure known as a frenectomy, which can be safely performed on infants, toddlers, and older children.
Frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing or clipping the frenums connecting the lips, cheeks, and tongue to the gum area. It is commonly done to improve mouth mobility and reduce the risk of gum recession. The procedure is typically low-risk, quick, and easy, with numbing gel applied and local anesthetic or nitrous oxide administered if desired. A scalpel, laser, or electrosurgery is used to clip or remove the frenum.
A frenectomy can also benefit a tongue-tied child, making it easier for them to swallow and speak, reducing the risk of gum recession, and aiding breastfeeding. Infants with tongue ties are often recommended for frenectomy immediately after delivery, particularly if the tongue tie causes problems with breastfeeding due to a poor latch. Frenectomy can help infants gain weight, improve their eating skills, and become more comfortable while nursing. New technologies have made the procedure safer and more convenient for patients of all ages, with diode lasers providing an alternative to traditional scalpels or scissors.
Ankyloglossia, or a tongue tie, can limit the tongue's movement and affect a child's ability to eat, speak, and breastfeed. A lingual frenectomy or tongue-tie release can remove the frenulum, correcting ankyloglossia and improving speech in toddlers. Older children with speech, eating, and breathing problems can also benefit from frenectomies, which can help with gum recession and tooth decay. In some cases, newborns with lip and tongue ties may require surgery to improve their ability to breastfeed properly.
In conclusion, the best age for a frenectomy depends on the individual case, but infants with tongue ties should receive the procedure as early as possible after delivery if breastfeeding difficulties arise. Older children and adults can also benefit from the procedure, which is safe and convenient thanks to new technologies. A frenectomy is a simple solution for tongue ties that can significantly improve the quality of life for both children and adults.