Lingual Frenectomy tongue tie Loveland

Correcting Tongue Ties With a Simple Procedure

Lingual Frenectomies at The ToothZone Network

At The ToothZone Network, we are dedicated to ensuring every child has the best possible start for a healthy and comfortable smile. Sometimes, a small piece of tissue in the mouth can affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, or even develop properly. This tissue is called the lingual frenulum, and if it’s too short or tight, it can lead to a condition commonly known as “tongue tie.” To address this, we offer the specialized procedure called a lingual frenectomy. 

While our comprehensive pediatric dental care spans our locations, this specific procedure is only performed at our Fort Collins office. A tongue tie Loveland dentists would recommend treating at our Fort Collins office is one that restricts the tongue’s movement, making it very difficult for the baby to latch while breastfeeding.

 

What is a Lingual Frenulum and “Tongue Tie”?

The lingual frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some cases, this tissue is unusually short, thick, or tight, restricting the tongue’s movement. This restriction is what is commonly referred to as “tongue tie,” or its medical term, ankyloglossia.

The range of tongue movement is vital for many functions. When movement is restricted by a tight lingual frenulum, it can create challenges for infants, children, and even teenagers. Recognizing the potential issues early is key to preventing more significant problems down the road.

 

Why Might a Lingual Frenectomy Be Recommended?

A restricted lingual frenulum can impact a child’s development and quality of life in various ways, depending on their age. This is why recognizing and treating a tongue tie early is so important. A lingual frenectomy may be recommended if a tongue tie is causing problems such as:

• Infant Feeding Difficulties: A restricted tongue can make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding challenging. Infants may have trouble latching properly, resulting in poor weight gain, prolonged feeding times, or discomfort for the nursing parent.

• Speech Issues: As children grow and begin to speak, the tongue’s ability to move freely is essential for forming certain sounds (like ‘t’, ‘d’, ‘z’, ‘s’, ‘th’, ‘l’, and ‘r’). A severe tongue tie can sometimes impede articulation and lead to speech impediments.

• Eating Problems: Older children with tongue tie might have difficulty moving food around their mouth, swallowing certain textures, or licking their lips.

• Oral Hygiene Challenges: Limited tongue movement can make it harder to sweep food debris off the teeth, potentially increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum problems.

• Impact on Oral Development: In some cases, a severe tongue tie can affect the development of the palate and jaw, potentially leading to orthodontic issues later on.

• Discomfort or Pain: A tight frenulum can sometimes cause discomfort or pain in the tongue or the area under the tongue.

 

The Lingual Frenectomy Procedure

A lingual frenectomy is a relatively simple surgical procedure that involves releasing or cutting the restrictive band of tissue. At The ToothZone Network, this specialized oral surgery is performed by our skilled team at our Fort Collins location. We ensure the referral process is smooth for our Loveland families.

The procedure is typically quick. For infants, it may be done with minimal or no anesthesia, as the tissue is thin and has few nerve endings. For older children or teens, local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and sometimes sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) or other forms of sedation, may be utilized to ensure the child’s comfort and relaxation during the procedure.

Our experienced team is adept at performing lingual frenectomy procedures gently and efficiently. We use precise techniques to minimize discomfort and promote quick healing. The goal is always to improve tongue mobility with as little stress for the child and parent as possible.

 

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Before the lingual frenectomy, our team will conduct a thorough examination and discuss the procedure in detail with you, explaining why it’s recommended and what to expect. We encourage questions and work to alleviate any concerns you or your child may have.

During the procedure in our Fort Collins office, the child will be made comfortable using appropriate anesthesia or sedation. The actual release of the frenulum takes just a few moments.

After the lingual frenectomy, you will receive specific aftercare instructions. There might be some minor discomfort or swelling, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by your pediatrician. We provide guidance on post-operative exercises, if necessary, to help maintain tongue mobility as the area heals. Healing is typically quite fast, and you should notice improved tongue function soon after the procedure.

 

Address Your Child’s Tongue Tie Today

If you suspect your child has a tongue tie or if you’re in the Loveland area and seeking information on addressing a tongue tie, contact The ToothZone Network. Our Fort Collins office is ready to provide expert lingual frenectomy services, and our Loveland office team can easily facilitate your referral.

Taking proactive steps to address a tongue tie with a lingual frenectomy can significantly improve your child’s ability to feed, speak, and maintain oral health. Schedule a consultation with our team today to discuss your child’s needs and learn how we can help their tongue move freely for a healthier, happier future.