Frenectomy Surgery in Lake Orion, MI
If you or your child are experiencing a tongue tie or lip tie, it can be restrictive and uncomfortable. Our frenectomy surgery service is tailored to address these concerns, providing our patients with a solution that improves their overall oral health, from infant breastfeeding to speech articulation and dental health for children and adults.
What is a Tounge Tie or Lip Tie?
A tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the thin piece of tissue (frenulum) beneath the tongue is shorter or tighter than usual. This restriction can limit the tongue’s range of motion, affecting essential tasks such as speaking, swallowing, and even breastfeeding for infants.
Likewise, lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum line is abnormally thick or tight. This condition can restrict the lip’s movement, leading to difficulty forming words during speech.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a relatively simple and minimally invasive surgical intervention that aims to release the frenulum, a small fold of tissue that connects certain oral structures. The primary purpose of a frenectomy is to improve oral function and overall well-being in patients of all ages. The two most common types of frenectomies are:
- Lingual Frenectomy: This procedure involves releasing the tight frenulum that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Lingual frenectomy addresses tongue tie, where the restrictive tissue limits the tongue’s range of motion, affecting essential tasks like speaking and swallowing.
- Labial Frenectomy: In this procedure, the tight frenulum connecting the upper lip to the gum line is carefully released. Labial frenectomy addresses lip tie, where the restricted tissue can hinder lip movement, leading to difficulties in speech articulation.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
Enhanced Speech and Articulation
As children grow and develop their speech abilities, untreated tongue or lip tie can hinder their speech and articulation. The limited mobility of the tongue or lip can make it challenging to form certain sounds and may lead to speech delays or difficulties in clear pronunciation. By undergoing a frenectomy, children can experience improved speech development.
Dental and Orthodontic Benefits
An untreated tongue tie or lip tie can contribute to dental issues such as gaps between teeth, dental crowding, and improper tooth alignment. A frenectomy can aid in promoting dental health and proper tooth alignment. By releasing the restrictive frenulum, the procedure allows for better oral hygiene practices and reduces the likelihood of dental complications.
Improved Breastfeeding for Infants
For infants with tongue ties or lip ties, breastfeeding can become a challenging and frustrating experience. By releasing the tight frenulum, infants can achieve a better latch during breastfeeding, allowing for more efficient feeding sessions and a more enjoyable experience for both mother and baby.
Overall Well-Being
Addressing tongue and lip ties can alleviate discomfort and frustration, allowing individuals to enjoy a higher quality of life. From improved eating and swallowing to a greater ability to express oneself clearly, the benefits of a frenectomy extend beyond the realm of dentistry.
Tongue and Lip Tie Surgery in Lake Orion, MI
If you or your child are experiencing tongue tie or lip tie concerns, we invite you to take the next step towards improved oral health by scheduling a consultation at Seven Oaks Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgeons in Lake Orion, MI. Dr. John and our team are here to support and guide you through every step of the process toward your renewed smile.