Laser Frenectomy: Aftercare Instructions

What Is Laser Frenectomy?

It is a surgical procedure for removing a frenulum with a laser. The frenulum is a small fold tissue that holds the tongue to regulate its motions. The fold is located underneath the tongue, controlling the tongue’s range of motion. A laser frenectomy in Houston is a corrective procedure that tightens or loosens the frenulum to offer better tongue support. Since the treatment addresses congenital conditions, laser frenectomy is more common in Houston pediatric dentistry than in general dentistry.

There are two types of laser frenectomy near you, including:

1. Lingual frenectomy – targets the skin fold underneath the tongue, connecting it to the floor of your mouth.
2. Labial frenectomy – targets the fold of tissue on top of your two front incisors, connecting them to your upper lip.

Why Do You Need a Laser Frenectomy?

Too much or too little range of motion for the tongue introduces various problems for your oral cavity. The most common one is a lip-tie or tongue-tie. Some other problems that may result from a frenulum that is too tight or too loose are:

1. Difficulty breastfeeding
2. Difficulty chewing and swallowing
3. Speech concerns diastema – a gap that develops on your front teeth
4. Gum recession

What Does the Surgery Involve?

A laser frenectomy is a quick procedure. The dentist uses a laser to cut the problematic frenulum. In some cases, you may need some stitches to promote healing. The procedure is quicker and easier for children than adults. After cutting the frenulum, most babies do not need further care. However, older kids and adults may require special attention to aid their recovery period.

Is the Procedure Painful?

Although it is a minor surgery, you will experience pain when your frenulum is cut. Therefore, dentists numb your mouth before the procedure. In some cases, the dentists at Urbach Pediatric Dentistry may incorporate sedation dentistry to calm and relax your body and mind.

What Are the Risks or Complications of This Procedure?

The dentist near you will be sure to inform you of the potential risks and complications of a laser frenectomy beforehand. They include:

1. Bleeding – at the surgical site
2. Bad breath
3. Swelling and soreness
4. Infection – if you are not careful to keep up with proper oral hygiene post-surgery
5. Injury to salivary ducts – those draining under the tongue
6. Reattachment of frenulum – very rare

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Any pediatric dentist Houston, TX, will tell you that babies make the fastest recovery after laser frenectomy near you. In fact, your child will resume feeding immediately after the surgery. However, it may take 3 to 7 days for other patients to make a complete recovery. The good news is that you do not need to halt your normal routines like work or school after surgery.

Aftercare Instruction Post-Surgery

Taking good care of your oral health post-surgery is crucial to make a quick recovery devoid of infections. Some tips to consider are:

1. Avoid eating anything while your mouth is numb – you risk hurting yourself since you cannot feel your oral features.
2. Keep the gauze in place until the bleeding subsides.
3. Avoid intense physical exertions – usually during the first 12-24 hours after the surgery. Resting will allow your body to work on speedy healing.
4. Avoid sharp, spicy, and acidic drinks and foods.
5. Avoid hot foods
6. Do not dislodge the hard scab that forms on the wound.
7. Stay hydrated by taking a lot of water – it will also help freshen your breath.
8. Eat soft foods – particularly on days one and two after your surgery.
9. Take the pain medication – the dentist will prescribe medicine to help manage the pain during recovery.
10. Keep the mouth clean to disallow infections – liaise closely with the pediatric dentist in Houston, TX, to determine the best cleaning products and methods for your child. The rule of thumb should be to exercise gentleness when cleaning the mouth.
11. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep bacteria away and prevent infections.

Summary

After about a week or two, reach out to your dentist for a checkup to check the progress of your recovery. However, do not hesitate to communicate any issues you experience during your recovery.