Your child’s oral development is important not just for a healthy smile, but also for essential functions like eating, speaking and breathing. Sometimes, a small band of tissue in the mouth, called a frenulum, can get in the way of those functions. A pediatric frenectomy in Bluffdale, Utah, is a simple surgical procedure used to remove or modify a frenulum that is restricting movement or causing other dental concerns.
What Is a Frenulum & Why Remove It?
A frenulum is a natural structure found in the mouth. There are two main types: the lingual frenulum, which connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the labial frenulum, which attaches the inside of the upper lip to the gums above the front teeth. If either of these tissues is too short, tight or thick, it can cause functional and developmental issues.
For example, a restricted lingual frenulum may lead to a condition known as tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia. This condition can interfere with your child’s ability to breastfeed, speak clearly or move their tongue properly. A tight labial frenulum may contribute to spacing between the upper front teeth, cause gum irritation or impact future orthodontic treatment.
How a Frenectomy Helps Your Child
A pediatric frenectomy in Bluffdale, Utah, is designed to release the tension caused by a problematic frenulum. This minor procedure can significantly improve your child’s comfort and oral function. In infants, it often helps improve latch and feeding. In older children, it can support clearer speech, easier oral hygiene and improved orthodontic development.
At The Point Pediatric Dentistry, we perform frenectomies with your child’s comfort in mind. The treatment is quick and healing is typically smooth and uncomplicated. In many cases, we use laser technology to reduce bleeding, minimize discomfort and promote faster healing.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The frenectomy procedure in Bluffdale, Utah, usually takes just a few minutes. Dr. Emily Austin or Dr. Michael Tew will gently remove or loosen the targeted frenulum, using either a traditional method or soft tissue laser, depending on the case. Local anesthesia is used to keep your child comfortable, and you will be given complete aftercare instructions to support the healing process at home.
If you have noticed signs of tongue-tie or other concerns related to your child’s oral development, we invite you to contact our office at 801-890-1161 and make an appointment with our pediatric dentists and learn about frenectomies in Bluffdale, Utah. We are here to answer your questions and provide gentle, effective care to help your child smile, speak, and thrive with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomy
What signs might indicate my child needs a frenectomy?
You may notice difficulty with breastfeeding, speech delays, mouth breathing or limited tongue or lip movement. Other signs include drooling, challenges with eating certain foods or speech articulation problems. A professional evaluation by our pediatric dentists can determine if a restricted frenulum is interfering with your child’s oral function or development.
Is a frenectomy safe for infants and young children?
Yes, frenectomy is considered very safe when performed by a qualified pediatric dental professional. The procedure is minimally invasive and uses precise techniques to reduce discomfort. Infants and children typically recover quickly, and most experience significant improvement in feeding, speech or oral mobility shortly after treatment.
How soon will my child recover after the procedure?
Most children experience a smooth and quick recovery. Minor swelling or tenderness may occur, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days. Following all aftercare instructions, including recommended stretches or exercises, can help prevent tissue reattachment and support optimal healing of the treatment site.
Can a frenectomy improve future dental and orthodontic outcomes?
Yes, removing a restrictive frenulum can support proper oral development, allowing the teeth and jaw to grow into better alignment. It may reduce the risk of spacing issues, gum recession or bite problems, and it often complements orthodontic treatment by improving the stability and success of long-term results.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Austin and Dr. Tew provide frenectomies in Bluffdale, Utah, and the surrounding areas. Reach out today to schedule a consultation with our experienced pediatric dentists and learn more.