Emma Tovilla

Dentist, Houston, TX, on 5 Benefits of Laser Frenectomies

Finding the right care for your little one’s smile can feel like a big task. As a parent, you want gentle, effective solutions for any oral health issues they might face. One common concern is a tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can affect everything from feeding to speech. 

At Gloss Dentistry, we’re excited to share how a laser frenectomy can make a world of difference for your child. This simple procedure eliminates a tight or restrictive frenulum—the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. While traditional methods involve scissors or a scalpel, our dentist in Houston, TX, uses advanced laser technology for a gentler and more precise alternative. Let’s explore five key advantages of laser frenectomies.

1. Unmatched Precision and Safety

When it comes to your child, precision matters. A laser frenectomy allows our dental team to target the restrictive tissue with incredible accuracy. The laser precisely removes the frenulum without affecting the surrounding areas. This means a cleaner, more controlled procedure from start to finish.

This level of precision minimizes the risk of complications. Because the laser is so exact, we can ensure that only the necessary tissue is treated. This makes the entire process safer and more predictable, giving parents peace of mind. 

2. Reduced Discomfort for Your Little One

The thought of any procedure for your child can be worrying, especially when it comes to potential pain. A major benefit of using a laser is that it cauterizes the tissue as it works. That means there’s minimal bleeding and swelling.

Many infants and children experience very little discomfort during or after the procedure. In fact, the procedure is so quick that anesthesia is often not needed, though a topical numbing gel is typically used to keep your child comfortable. This focus on a gentle experience is a cornerstone of our Houston, TX, dentist’s approach.

3. Faster Healing and Recovery

Parents are often amazed at how quickly their children bounce back after a laser frenectomy. The laser’s ability to seal blood vessels and nerve endings as it works leads to a much faster healing process compared to traditional methods. There are no stitches to worry about, and the treated area begins to heal almost immediately.

Post-procedure care is straightforward:

• Stretches: We will provide you with simple stretches to ensure the tissue heals properly and doesn’t reattach. 
• Feeding: Most babies can breastfeed or bottle-feed right after the procedure, so you won’t have to worry about disruption to their routine. 
• Activities: If you get a laser frenectomy for an older child, they can typically return to their normal activities the same day. 

4. Improvement in Oral Function

A restrictive frenulum can cause a surprising number of challenges. For infants, it can lead to:

• Difficulties with Latching
• Trouble Feeding
• Colic-Like Symptoms from Swallowing Air

For older children, it can impact: 

• Speech Development
• Eating
• Overall Oral Hygiene

A laser frenectomy from our dentist in Houston, TX, provides an immediate release of this tension, often leading to instant improvements. Parents frequently report that their baby latches more effectively right away. For toddlers and kids, you might notice clearer speech or an easier time eating different food textures. 

5. Better Breastfeeding and Feeding Outcomes

For new mothers, a successful breastfeeding journey is incredibly important. A tongue-tie or lip-tie can create significant obstacles, leading to painful nursing for the mother and poor weight gain for the baby. A laser frenectomy from Gloss Dentistry at Greenway can be a game-changer.

By allowing the tongue and lip to move freely, the procedure helps the baby create a deeper, more effective latch. This not only makes nursing more comfortable for mom but also enables the baby to draw milk more efficiently. This simple solution can preserve the breastfeeding relationship and ensure your baby gets the nourishment they need, highlighting the profound impact of laser dentistry.

Little Ones Smile Better with Laser Frenectomies

A laser frenectomy is a wonderful example of how advanced technology can lead to better outcomes and a more positive experience for the whole family. If you have concerns about a potential tongue-tie or lip-tie, our dentist in Houston, TX, is here to help.

Book a consultation at Gloss Dentistry at Greenway to learn more about how we can support your child’s oral health with laser technology. We’ll work to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright from the very start.