1011 E Prescott Rd
Salina, KS 67401
DENTAL SERVICES
Tongue & Lip Ties
Diagnosis of Tongue & Lip Ties in Children
As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Moeller specializes in advanced treatment of the soft tissues of the mouth, including tongue and lip ties in infants and children.
To diagnose the condition, Dr. Moeller will evaluate your child for tongue function and appearance. Parents and primary caregivers are included in the evaluation in order to provide a thorough explanation of the tongue, lip or buccal ties and to ensure a complete understanding of the care process.
If a frenectomy is needed, the procedure happens during the same visit in order to minimize dental visits. Please bring a swaddle to the diagnostic appointment, evaluation and any additional appointments.
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment with Laser Frenectomy
During lip and tongue tie treatment with a laser frenectomy, we gently swaddle your child and place laser eye protection. No sedation or general anesthesia is needed. One of our dental assistants will gently stabilize your baby's head for the procedure. Once safely swaddled and protected, the laser frenectomy procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes. The laser tip is used to finely and precisely remove the restrictive tissue under the tongue. If other lip ties, buccal ties, or lower lip ties are noted, they are treated on the same visit.
Because the laser seals blood vessels, little to no bleeding occurs during the procedure. The laser also seals nerve endings, creating a numbing effect for several hours following the visit. Additionally, the laser also disinfects and sterilizes the area, minimizing any risk of infection.
As soon as Dr. Moeller releases the ties, the swaddle and eye wear are removed and you are reunited with your child. Breastfeeding is possible immediately after the procedure.
Recovery After A Laser Frenectomy
The revision site heals similarly to a canker sore, so your child may be more fussy for a few days following the procedure. Some show immediate improvement with breastfeeding following the procedure. Other babies may need some time to learn how to use their newly released tongue. Working with a lactation consultant can help get your changing breastfeeding relationship off to a good start.
Since the bottom of the tongue and floor of the mouth frequently touch, the site will occasionally reattach. To prevent reattachment, Dr. Moeller recommends a specific aftercare regimen and will discuss aftercare details during the appointment.
