What Is an Infant Frenectomy?
An infant frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure designed to release a tongue-tie (medically known as ankyloglossia). A tongue-tie occurs when the thin band of tissue (the lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, short, or thick. This restriction can interfere with an infant’s ability to breastfeed effectively, cause speech development issues later in life, and even contribute to breathing and sleep disorders.
At Bloom Holistic Dentistry in Atlanta, GA, we approach infant frenectomies with a holistic perspective, focusing not just on the physical release of the tissue but on how it affects your child’s overall health, development, and well-being.
Signs Your Baby May Have a Tongue-Tie
Tongue-ties can often go unnoticed in newborns, but certain signs may indicate a need for evaluation:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Poor weight gain despite frequent feeding
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Prolonged feeding sessions or frustration during feeds
- Gassiness or colic-like symptoms due to air intake
- Sore nipples or painful breastfeeding for the mother
If left untreated, tongue-ties can also impact speech, dental development, and airway health as your child grows.
Our Holistic Approach to Infant Frenectomy
At Bloom Holistic Dentistry, Dr. Zahra Punjani and Dr. Mijung Myung utilize advanced techniques to ensure a safe, gentle, and effective frenectomy experience. Our approach includes:
- Laser Frenectomy: We often use soft tissue lasers for precise, minimally invasive releases. This method reduces discomfort, minimizes bleeding, and promotes faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
- Whole-Body Focus: Understanding that oral restrictions can affect the entire body, we collaborate with lactation consultants, pediatricians, and myofunctional therapists to support your child’s feeding, breathing, and developmental needs.
- Post-Procedure Support: After the frenectomy, we provide guidance on aftercare exercises to prevent reattachment and optimize oral function.
Explore related therapies like Myofunctional Therapy that support oral development post-frenectomy.
Benefits of Infant Frenectomy
- Improved breastfeeding efficiency and reduced maternal discomfort
- Better weight gain and growth
- Enhanced oral muscle function for proper speech development
- Support for proper airway development, reducing the risk of sleep-disordered breathing
By addressing tongue-ties early, we help set the foundation for healthy oral, speech, and airway development.
Why Choose Bloom Holistic Dentistry?
- Holistic Philosophy: We consider how oral structures affect the entire body, not just isolated symptoms.
- Experienced Team: Dr. Punjani and Dr. Myung are skilled in airway-focused dentistry, with expertise in minimally invasive procedures for infants.
- Collaborative Care: We work alongside healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support for your baby’s health.
Looking for additional support with airway-related concerns? Learn about Sleep-Disordered Breathing and how early intervention can benefit your child.
Schedule an Infant Frenectomy Consultation Today
If you suspect your baby has a tongue-tie, early evaluation and treatment can make a world of difference. Contact Bloom Holistic Dentistry in Atlanta, GA, to schedule a consultation with our caring team.
Call us at (470) 280-1858 or request an appointment online to learn more about how we can support your baby’s health and development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Frenectomy
- Is an infant frenectomy painful for my baby?
The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, especially when performed with a laser. Most babies experience only mild discomfort, and many can breastfeed immediately afterward, which helps soothe them. - How long does the frenectomy procedure take?
The actual procedure typically takes just a few minutes. Including preparation and aftercare instructions, the entire appointment usually lasts about 30 minutes. - Will my baby need stitches after the procedure?
No, stitches are not required. Laser frenectomy promotes natural healing without the need for sutures, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster recovery. - How soon will we see improvements in breastfeeding?
Many parents notice immediate improvements in latching and feeding, while others see gradual progress over several days as the baby adapts. Follow-up care, including oral exercises, can enhance results. - Is follow-up care needed after the frenectomy?
Yes, we recommend specific aftercare exercises to prevent the tissue from reattaching and to support proper oral development. We may also suggest working with a lactation consultant or myofunctional therapist for optimal results.