If your little one has a lip or tongue-tie, an oral surgeon can perform a frenectomy to correct the restricting band of tissue. Although no parent wants their infant to require a procedure, it’s in their best interest to free their lip or tongue to ensure normal movements for their development and wellness. Thankfully, the procedure is minimally invasive using a soft tissue laser. You won’t have to worry about your baby experiencing a long, painful recovery. Here’s what you can expect while your bundle of joy recovers from a frenectomy.
Immediately Following a Frenectomy
Your child’s oral surgeon will apply a topical numbing medication before using a soft tissue laser to quickly cut the band. This method is less invasive than a scalpel and sutures. The laser cauterizes the tissue to reduce bleeding. There’s also less risk of swelling and infections.
After heading home with your child, they may have some discomfort and require a little more snuggling. Once the effects of any numbing medications wear off, they may have some tenderness when nursing or drinking from a bottle. If your little one is already eating solids, only offer soft foods. Avoid anything acidic, spicey, or crunchy for a few days.
Follow their oral surgeon’s aftercare instructions to keep their mouth clean. Children over the age of 2 or 12 pounds can be given Tylenol or Ibuprofen to manage their discomfort. Their oral surgeon may prescribe pain medication. A cold compress can reduce pain and inflammation.
Recovering from a Frenectomy
Oral tissues tend to heal quickly. You may notice some bleeding or minor oozing, which is normal. You can manage it by applying a piece of gauze. If there’s any heavy oozing or bleeding, contact their oral surgeon.
Generally, the surgical site will be healed completely in 2-3 weeks. You can ensure there aren’t any complications by keeping your child’s mouth clean and following their oral surgeon’s recovery instructions.
Give your child any prescribed antibiotics as instructed. Watch your little one for any signs of an infection, like fever, redness, swelling, or odors.
Although your infant might feel a little under the weather for a few days, a lip or tongue tie can affect their nutrition, speech, and oral functions if not corrected. A frenectomy ensures your child has normal lip or tongue movements to support their development and health.
About Dr. Sheng Ji
Dr. Ji is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. He achieved his dental degree from the UCSF dental school and continued his education in oral and maxillofacial surgery to earn his certification. He is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (916) 758-9018.