Tongue Tie Laser Surgery: Preparation and Recovery

Did you know that your dentist can perform tongue tie laser surgery? This procedure can help solve many of the issues your baby may experience during breastfeeding. In the surgery, your dentist will remove your child’s frenulum to help promote more effective tongue movement. It is important to understand how this process works and what the results can be.
The problems with tongue tie
The band of tissue under the tongue that connects to the bottom of the mouth is called the frenulum. Abnormalities with this tissue can have more negative consequences than some people realize. When the frenulum is too short or tight, a baby may have diminished tongue control. This could make it difficult for the child to latch onto the mother’s breast during nursing. If breastfeeding is not successful, the baby may not get proper nourishment, leading to health problems, including sleeping problems and lack of growth. Mothers can also suffer from developing breast pain and infections.
Making the decision to do the tongue tie laser surgery
The tongue tie condition is often diagnosed in the hospital shortly after delivery. Some doctors may recommend doing the procedure before the child goes home from the hospital. If parents decide to wait until later, it is helpful to have a consultation with a dentist, who may perform the surgery. The dentist will discuss the benefits of the surgery and whether it is necessary in the child’s case.
Asking questions
Leading up to the tongue tie laser surgery, parents should get as much information as possible about the process. It is wise to ask about the severity of the issue and whether there are other viable treatment options. Parents should also talk to the dentist about what medications will be used and how the procedure can improve nursing.
The surgery
Tongue tie laser surgery is a quick process. By using a laser, the dentist can be accurate and fast at removing the frenulum. The procedure usually only takes about five to 10 minutes. Once the dentist finishes the removal, there will be little bleeding. Most likely, stitching will not be required at the wound site. Also, the dentist will not use a local anesthetic.
Afterward
Complications of the tongue tie laser surgery are rare. The baby should be able to resume breastfeeding immediately, so there is no need to wait to nurse. If the baby appears agitated after the procedure, parents may administer infant Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Some dentists also recommend stretching the child’s tongue periodically to promote healing and proper movement.
Make it a success
As a mother, you know how challenging breastfeeding can be. This activity is even more complicated when your baby cannot latch onto your breast or has difficulty moving the tongue freely. Thankfully, getting a tongue tie laser surgery can give you and the baby relief. If you are concerned that your little one is not eating enough and that you are experiencing pain, call your dentist. This professional can examine your baby and determine whether this surgery makes sense.
Are you considering tongue tie laser surgery in the Middletown area? Get more information on our Tongue Tie Laser Surgery page.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Tooth decay is one of those dental issues that most people will deal with at some point in their lives. Fortunately, dental sealants are a preventative treatment that can help protect teeth from decay. If you are a parent considering protecting your child’s teeth with sealants, you may be wondering about the process. This article…
If your child has recently gotten dental sealants, it is wise to get a toothbrush that cleans the teeth and does not irritate or damage the sealant. The kind of toothbrush that will remove plaque, reach all regions of your child’s mouth and be best for their oral health depends on their particular dental requirements.…
Dental sealants are a preventive treatment that can greatly benefit young children who have just had their permanent molars come through. Sealants can also benefit children with baby teeth, particularly those vulnerable to decay. The following article discusses the numerous benefits of dental sealants for children.Dental sealants for children reduce the risk of dental decay…
While most people are familiar with dental sealants as a preventative treatment for a child's teeth, it is essential to recognize their broader applications. Dental sealants can serve as a remedy for sensitive teeth or even reverse the early stages of a developing cavity. This treatment can also significantly improve the health of a tooth…