Frenectomy Services in Aurora, IL
At Fox Valley Dental Care in Aurora, IL, our dedicated dental team is here to help you address oral tissue concerns with our expert frenectomy services. Frenectomies can help reduce restrictions in the mouth that may affect speech, eating, and overall oral health.
We use advanced dental technology to ensure precision and comfort when treating tongue ties and lip ties in both children and adults. Contact our dental office today to schedule your consultation and find out how a frenectomy can help improve your oral health.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a straightforward and minimally invasive dental procedure designed to alleviate discomfort and improve oral function by removing or altering the frenum, which is a small piece of tissue that connects your tongue to the floor of your mouth or your upper lip to your gums.
There are primarily two types of frenectomy procedures—one that addresses the lingual frenum (under the tongue), often referred to as tongue-tie, and the other that deals with the labial frenum (connecting the upper lip to the gums).
Tongue Ties and Lip Ties
A tongue tie occurs when the frenum under the tongue is too short or tight, restricting tongue movement. Similarly, a lip tie occurs when the frenum connecting the upper lip to the gum tissue is too tight. Both conditions can cause various difficulties, ranging from feeding issues in infants to speech and dental problems in children and adults.
Symptoms of Tongue Tie and Lip Tie in Children
If your infant or small child is experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may have a tongue or lip tie:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Slow weight gain due to feeding issues
- Speech difficulties or delay
- Challenges with swallowing
- Dental issues, such as tooth decay or spacing
Symptoms of Tongue Tie and Lip Tie in Adults
Adults with tongue tie or lip tie may experience:
- Difficulty in articulating words clearly
- Challenges with eating certain foods
- Dental issues, such as gum recession or spacing between teeth
- Discomfort or pain in the jaw, neck, or shoulders
The Procedure
Initial Consultation
Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with one of our doctors. During this appointment, they will assess the condition of the frenum, discuss your symptoms, and explain the procedure in detail. They will also review your medical history and may take digital X-rays in order to create a custom treatment plan.
Laser Frenectomy
A laser frenectomy is a modern and minimally invasive procedure that employs laser technology to release the frenum. The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the targeted area and then uses a soft tissue laser to incise the frenum.
The laser not only cuts but also cauterizes the tissue, resulting in minimal bleeding and a lower infection risk than traditional methods. The laser’s accuracy ensures that only the frenum is targeted, leaving surrounding tissues unaffected.
Aftercare
After the procedure, you may experience minor discomfort and swelling. The dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for the area, including keeping it clean and managing pain. You will need to eat soft foods for a few days while you heal.
Take the First Step Towards Better Oral Health With a Frenectomy in Aurora, IL
Don’t let tongue tie or lip tie hold you or your loved one back. Take control of your oral health by scheduling a dental appointment at Fox Valley Dental Care for frenectomy services in Aurora, IL. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the process and help you achieve the comfort and functionality you deserve. Call us today to schedule a consultation.