If your child requires a frenectomy in Columbia, you probably feel overwhelmed. It can be challenging to know what to expect when your child has a surgical procedure, particularly one that involves their mouth. However, a frenectomy is generally a safe and relatively quick procedure, and your little one should be able to heal quickly with some TLC from you at home.
In this blog post, we will share everything you need to know about the healing process after a frenectomy so that you can provide the best care for your child.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A Frenectomy is a minor procedure that removes excess tissue attached to the lip and tongue. It improves speech and specific dental issues. For example, if your child has difficulty protruding the tongue when speaking or feeding, a Frenectomy may help. It can also address crowding in the mouth caused by excessive tissue around the mouth or teeth, allowing your child more room to grow and develop as needed.
Breastfeeding After Laser Frenectomy
Once your dentist completes your child's laser frenectomy procedure, healing is the next step. During this process, your child should be able to continue breastfeeding as long as any discomfort can be managed.
There are a few different ways to ease the discomfort experienced during feeding. You can try positioning your child differently in the nursing chair or keeping a warm cloth on their cheek during their feedings.
You can also allow shorter feedings and more frequent breaks in between to allow your child time to pause and adjust if they become uncomfortable during feeding. Additionally, you may also choose to alternate sides every so often while feeding.
After Laser Frenectomy Stretching Exercises
After Laser Frenectomy, your child will need to do some exercises to help with the healing process. It is advisable to help your child by diligently stretching the tongue and upper lips. You can do this several times a day with a tongue-trainer device.
Stretching the Tongue
This needs to be done daily for optimal results and should involve the following:
- Have your child stick their tongue out as far as they can
- You can hold a soft toy in front of them as a target for their tongue
- Massage the underside of their chin for about 10 seconds
- Have them make short movements with their tongue
Stretching the Upper Lip
This should be done by:
- Putting two fingers on each side of the upper lip and gently move up and down.
- Hold this stretch for about 10 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds before repeating this process.
By doing these daily stretching exercises, you will help your little one heal quickly after a frenectomy and can also help prevent any further problems associated with this procedure.
Contact Our Office to Get a Pediatric Dental Consultation
Dr. Su Kim of Tiny Tooth Pediatric Dentistry is an experienced Columbia pediatric dentist specializing in children's frenectomy. If your child's frenulum is causing latch issues, it is time to book an appointment with us. When you visit us, Dr. Su will assess your child's mouth and determine if they are a good candidate for a frenectomy. Contact us today for more information about what to expect.