At New Jersey Tongue-Tie Center, we specialize in providing effective, comfortable treatments for patients with tongue-tie and lip-tie conditions. Among our treatment options, patients can receive CO2 laser frenectomies at our office using state-of-the-art technology to provide the best treatment possible.
What are the symptoms of a tongue tie?
Tongue-ties are experienced in numerous children, therefore if you suspect your child may have been born with one, there is no need to worry. With modern technology, frenectomies are performed daily around the world and are incredibly safe. There are numerous things to look out for to help you access whether your child may have a tongue-tie, and many pediatricians and doctors will be able to easily confirm if your baby was born with one. Tongue ties are nothing to worry too much over, however, if they go untreated, there could be significant delays in your child’s growth and milestones. While each child may experience symptoms differently, there are more common signs and symptoms to look for when it comes to determining if your baby is experiencing issues with a tongue tie.
- Colic
- Difficult intake of adequate milk
- Early weaning from the breast
- Extended nursing duration
- Slow weight gain
- Gassiness
- Falling asleep during a feed
- Unable to develop or sustain a good latch
- Unable to hold a pacifier
Poor latching can cause problems for mothers too including difficult breastfeeding, mastitis, anxiety, slow post-delivery weight loss, painful conditions of nipples, and low milk supply or early cessation of lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the benefits of a frenectomy?
Laser frenectomies are extraordinarily precise and quick. There is no need for general anesthesia. Your baby will only have minimal discomfort or swelling and the laser treatment sterilizes the treatment area, reducing the chance of infection. In addition to the benefits of the laser procedure, once the release of the tongue tie is complete, your baby will be more able to latch onto the breast and feed more efficiently. This will improve the baby’s health and well-being as well as the mother’s.
How can I tell if my baby has a tongue tie?
If your baby is struggling to latch and you suspect a physical impediment to success, look into the baby’s mouth and use your finger to feel for tightness in the tissue under his or her tongue or between the front upper gum and lip.
How is the procedure completed?
Dr. Tommy Lee will use a precise CO2 laser to release the tightened or tethered tissue. The whole procedure takes less than 10 minutes and in most instances, the baby will find it easier to latch immediately when he or she is returned to you. Your baby may experience some slight swelling for a day or so following the treatment. Also, we will provide advice on how to care for the baby’s mouth and if any exercises or post-surgical care is needed to ensure that the frenum does not reattach or tether again.
Our Treatment Steps for CO2 Laser Frenectomies
CO2 laser frenectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat tongue-tie and lip-tie patients of all ages. The procedure involves using a CO2 laser to remove the tight or thick band of tissue causing the restriction in movement. Here are the typical treatment steps for CO2 laser frenectomy:
Consultation
The first step is to schedule a consultation with our trained dentists specializing in CO2 laser frenectomy. During the consultation, we will evaluate the patient’s oral health and discuss the procedure in detail, including the risks and benefits.
Laser Treatment
Our dentists will use a CO2 laser to precisely remove the restrictive tissue, which typically takes just a few minutes. The laser cauterizes the area as it releases, which minimizes bleeding and reduces the risk of infection.
Post-Operative Care
The patient may experience some mild discomfort or swelling after the procedure. The dentist will provide instructions for post-operative care, which may include stretching exercises, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, keeping the mouth clean, and taking over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
Follow-Up
We will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure the healing process is proceeding as expected.
The Benefits of CO2 Laser Frenectomies
CO2 Lasers are considered one of the best techniques for frenectomies as they seal up the blood vessels and nerve endings, reducing the risk of bleeding and sterilizing the surgical site. These lasers seal up the lymphatic vessels, reducing the infection risk. Patients after a CO2 laser frenectomy experience little to no pain or swelling after the procedure, as this surgery doesn’t require general anesthesia.
These lasers offer several benefits, including minimal bleeding, reduced risk of infection, and faster healing times compared to traditional surgical methods. Additionally, CO2 lasers are highly precise, allowing us to perform the procedure with minimal patient discomfort.
Contact Our Hoboken or Montvale, NJ Clinics
for a Frenectomy!
If you would like to schedule a consultation for tongue-tie or lip-tie treatment at New Jersey Tongue-Tie Center, contact us at your earliest convenience. Our team of experienced dental professionals will be delighted to answer any questions and help you find the best treatment for your needs. We look forward to hearing from you!
