Your March 2023 Newsletter from Little Champions Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics.
Understanding Pediatric Frenectomies
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases the tissue that attaches the lips, cheeks, and tongue to the gums. It is commonly used in pediatric dentistry to improve speech development and oral hygiene. The two types of frenectomies are labial frenectomies and lingual frenectomies. Labial Frenectomy A labial frenectomy involves removing or releasing the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum line on one side of the mouth. This type of procedure can help with speech issues caused by an overly tight upper lip such as lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds like “s” and “z”. It can also improve oral hygiene since it makes it easier for children to brush their teeth properly without having to stretch their lips too far apart when brushing near their gums.
Lingual Frenectomy
A lingual frenectomy involves removing or releasing the tissue connecting either side of a child's tongue to his/her lower jawbone (mandible). This type of procedure helps with problems related to an overly tight tongue such as difficulty swallowing food, speaking clearly, eating certain foods, and even sleeping comfortably at night due to airway obstruction caused by a constricted tongue muscle. Lingual frenectomies can also help reduce snoring in some cases due to improved air flow through nasal passages during sleep time.
Signs and Symptoms of Needing a Pediatric Frenectomy
A pediatric frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases the tissue connecting the lips to the gums. It may be necessary if there is too much tension in this area, causing difficulty with eating, speaking, or other oral functions. Signs and symptoms that may indicate a need for this procedure include difficulty latching onto the breast during breastfeeding; excessive drooling; inability to move their tongue freely; speech impediments such as lisping; and an overly large gap between their upper lip and gum line.
Happy Orthodontic Treatment at Little Champions
Orthodontic treatment helps your child bite and chew properly, and contributes to clear speech patterns. When teeth function properly, a natural byproduct is they also tend to look nice. An attractive smile is a pleasant side effect of orthodontic treatment, and can have emotional benefits for children and adults. Self-confidence and self-esteem may improve as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. Straight teeth are also less prone to decay, gum disease and injury, plus improved gum health, balanced jaw muscle kinetics, and a boost in self-confidence!
Thank you for being a part of our Pediatric Dental & Orthodontic Family.
Little Champions Pediatric Dentisty & Orthodontics Preventative Pediatric Dentistry Orthodontics Kids & Adults Learn more about today! 305-285-8341 1330 Coral Way, Suite 406, Miami, FL www.littlechampionsdental.com