Lingual Frenectomy

The frenum is a small, soft piece of tissue found in two places in your oral cavity. The labial frenum is found at the roof of your mouth between your upper lip and your two front teeth. The lingual frenum is the piece of tissue attached to your tongue and the floor of your mouth. The purpose of the lingual frenum is to help control the tongue and the resulting speech and swallowing abilities. A lingual frenectomy columbus ohio is a simple surgery on this small piece of tissue if it is malformed or was damaged in an accident.

Why have a Lingual Frenectomy?

If you have heard the term “tongue-tied” this is referring to problems with the lingual frenum. You may have some speaking difficulties when it comes to pronouncing certain words or syllables. Swallowing may be difficult resulting in both chewing and eating difficulties. Sometimes infants need to have a lingual frenectomy because the baby has difficulty breastfeeding. It can result in jaw protrusion, bad breath and basic overall cosmetic appearance.

The Lingual Frenectomy Procedure

There are three methods available today in performing a lingual frenectomy. The first is the traditional. After the application of a local anesthesia a small scalpel or knife can be used to remove the excessive tissue. Dissolvable sutures can be used to mend the small surgery site. There will be minimal blood loss with the procedure.

The second method is that of laser surgery. With no blood loss and sometimes no anesthesia, this method is extremely precise and will also coagulate the blood at the incision such that sutures are not necessary.

The final method is that of using a heated electrode. This method burns the excessive tissue, involves no blood loss or sutures as well.

The Post-Operative Recovery time

Prior to initiating the frenectomy procedure make sure your dentist or the oral surgeon knows of your medical history. They will want to know of any allergies or medications you currently are prescribed. It is important to know about high blood pressure, chest pains or bleeding disorders.

The procedure itself only takes between 30 minutes to an hour. The instructions that you will be sent home with are basic common sense suggestions. If you exercise good oral hygiene in the days to follow you will be totally healed inside of a week. Some unusual side effects can sometimes lead to excessive bleeding, bruising around the surgical site, swollen lips or gums, your tongue restricted in its movement for a short while or an infection at the site.

Ice packs can help the healing process. So will saltwater rinses for several days as well as some over the counter pain relievers. You will want to pay attention to a balanced diet. Consider softer foods as well as foods that are not hot and spicy. Keep your teeth, gums and mouth clean to prevent infection.

Upon healing you will naturally enjoy the results of your lingual frenectomy. How can something so small make such a big difference in your daily lifestyle? If you suffer from speech issues or have swallowing problems call it to the attention of your dentist on your next visit.

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