Correct Your Child’s Tongue/Lip Tie Today

A procedure wherein one of our pediatric dentists will cut or modify a frenum – a small band of connective tissue that impedes a full range of motion in your infant’s mouth – a frenectomy (which releases a lip or tongue tie) is a routine procedure our experts are proud to offer at Childrens Dentistry of Texas & Orthodontics in Richmond, TX.

Why is a frenectomy sometimes necessary?

While the average person has multiple frena (the plural word for frenum) in their mouth, an overly short frenum tie below the tongue can restrict tongue movement and even affect speech, while a shortened frenum on the inside of the lips can pull on a patient’s gum tissue. Both can cause feeding issues and speech concerns in babies, and over time, a short frenum can also cause gums to pull away from the teeth or create a gap between the teeth.

What’s involved with this procedure?

A safe, simple, and quick procedure that will dramatically improve a child’s comfort and freedom of motion in their mouth, there are two types of frenectomies:

A lingual frenectomy removes or alters the tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This procedure is often used to correct tongue-ties.

A labial frenectomy removes the tissue that connects the upper gums to the front teeth and corrects lip-ties, though this procedure can also be performed on the lower lip, as well.

At Childrens Dentistry of Texas & Orthodontics, our experienced team is here to help you care for your child’s oral health needs. Call us today with any questions you have!