Are Frenectomies Necessary?

In the world of pediatric dentistry, certain procedures might seem intimidating or unnecessary to parents or caregivers. One such procedure is the frenectomy, a simple surgical operation that can significantly improve a child's quality of life. At Pediatric Dental World, your Highland Village pediatric dentist understands your concerns, and we're here to dispel any myths and provide clear, factual information about the necessity of frenectomies.

Understanding Frenectomies

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed to remove or loosen a band of muscle tissue connected to the lip, cheek or floor of the mouth, known as a frenum. When the frenum is too tight or short, it can cause difficulties with feeding, speech, and oral hygiene. 

• It can lead to a gap between the front teeth.
• It can cause speech difficulties.
• It can result in difficulties with feeding in infants.

The procedure is quick, with minimal discomfort, and the benefits can be life-changing for a child experiencing any of the above issues.

When is a Frenectomy Necessary?

Determining the necessity of a frenectomy often depends on the specific symptoms and difficulties experienced by the child. 

• If a child is having difficulty speaking clearly due to tongue-tie, a frenectomy may be necessary.
• If an infant is unable to breastfeed properly because of a tight frenum, a frenectomy might be recommended.
• If a child's oral hygiene is affected, or if the frenum is causing a gap between the front teeth, a frenectomy could be beneficial.

At Pediatric Dental World, our team of experienced pediatric dentists, including Dr. Jason Clapp, Dr. Jessica Bell, Dr. Jennifer Lee, and Dr. Natalie Smith, can assess your child's specific situation and provide expert recommendations.

The Frenectomy Procedure

The frenectomy procedure is relatively simple and quick, often taking less than 15 minutes. 

• It's performed under local anesthesia, ensuring the child feels no pain.
• The dentist uses a laser or scalpel to precisely cut the frenum.
• The area heals quickly, usually within a week.

Our team at Pediatric Dental World is experienced in performing frenectomies, ensuring your child's comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Post-Frenectomy Care

After the procedure, there may be some minor discomfort, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. 

• It's important to keep the area clean to prevent infection.
• Soft foods are recommended for a few days post-surgery.
• Regular follow-up appointments will ensure proper healing and monitor any potential complications.

At Pediatric Dental World, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and support to ensure your child's recovery is smooth and comfortable.

Pediatric Dental World: Your Trusted Dental Care in Highland Village, Flower Mound, Lantana

If you're concerned about your child's speech, feeding, or oral hygiene issues and think a frenectomy in Highland Village might be beneficial, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Pediatric Dental World. Our team of experienced pediatric dentists is here to provide the highest standard of care for your child. Located in Highland Village, we also proudly serve families from Flower Mound and Lantana. Call us today at (972) 317-6997 to schedule an appointment and discuss your child's dental health needs.