If you’re a parent concerned about your child’s oral function, this post will help you understand the procedure, its benefits, and the crucial role of pediatric physical therapy for full recovery. Tongue-ties can be properly managed to avoid major consequences in the development of your child.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that releases a tight or thick band of tissue called a frenulum. Everyone as frenula in their mouth as they are essential to proper oral function but if a frenulum is too tight or thick it can restrict the movement of the (tongue-tie) or upper lip (lip-tie and buccal ties)
Why is a Frenectomy Performed?
Oral restrictions caused by lip and tongue ties can lead to various challenges, including:
- Breastfeeding difficulties: Poor latch, inefficient milk transfer, nipple pain, and maternal frustration.
- Speech problems: Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, particularly those requiring tongue elevation.
- Sleep disturbances: Mouth breathing, snoring, and sleep apnea due to restricted airway.
- Dental issues: Gaps between teeth, gum recession, and difficulty keeping the mouth clean.
- Digestive issues: Difficulty moving food around in the mouth, leading to gagging or choking.
- Oral Motor and Anatomical development: inappropriate oral movement leading to a high, thin palate and mouth breathing.
- Oral habits: Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and difficulty swallowing.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
- Scissors Frenectomy: This traditional method uses surgical scissors to release the frenulum. It’s quick and often performed in a doctor’s office.
- Laser Frenectomy: A more modern technique using a laser to precisely remove the frenulum. It typically offers faster healing and less discomfort.
Your provider will recommend the most suitable method based on your child’s age and the severity of the tie.
The Benefits of a Frenectomy
By releasing the tethered oral tissues, a frenectomy can significantly improve:
- Feeding: Better latch, more efficient milk transfer, and reduced discomfort for both baby and mom.
- Speech: Improved clarity and articulation.
- Sleep: Reduced mouth breathing and snoring, promoting better sleep quality.
- Oral health: Easier cleaning, reduced risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Overall development: Improved oral movement promoting normal development and feeding/sleep contribute to better growth and development.
Recovery Time and Post-Frenectomy Exercises
Recovery from a frenectomy is usually quick, with minimal discomfort. Here’s what to expect:
- Immediate post-op: Some bleeding is normal. Apply gentle pressure if needed.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like infant Tylenol are usually sufficient. Some babies like cold milk if bottle fed during this period.
- Feeding: Resume feeding as soon as possible after procedure.
- Healing: The surgical site typically heals within a week or two but post operative stretches are needed for up to a month after the procedure to ensure the frenulum doesn’t grow back.
The Importance of Pediatric Physical Therapy
To maximize the benefits of a frenectomy, it’s crucial to work with a pediatric physical therapist (PT) before and after the procedure.
- Pre-frenectomy PT: Helps prepare the oral tissues for the procedure and address any underlying muscle tension or imbalances.
- Post-frenectomy PT: Focuses on retraining the tongue and lip muscles to improve function and prevent reattachment.
Examples of Post-Op Massages and Oral Exercises
Your pediatric PT will provide a personalized exercise plan, but here are some examples:
- Tongue stretches: Gently lift the tongue tip and move it side to side.
- Lip stretches: Massage the upper lip and pull it gently away from the gums.
- Floor of mouth massages: Use your finger to gently massage the area under the tongue using a sweeping motion to encourage lateralization.
- Sucking exercises: Encourage non-nutritive sucking on a pacifier or clean finger.
Follow-Up Care
After the procedure, follow up with your provider and pediatric PT as recommended. They will monitor healing and ensure your child is progressing well.
Important Note: While generally safe, frenectomies do carry potential risks. It’s essential to discuss these with your provider to make an informed decision.
Looking for a Provider?
If you’re seeking a qualified provider to perform a frenectomy or a pediatric PT for pre- and post-procedure care, please don’t hesitate to contact me for recommendations! I’m here to support you and your child on this journey.
Remember: A frenectomy can be a game-changer for children struggling with lip or tongue ties. By combining the procedure with dedicated pediatric PT, you can help your child achieve optimal oral function and overall well-being.
