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Infant Frenectomies in Hackensack, NJ

Does Your Child Have a Lip or Tongue Tie?

Lip and tongue ties are most often identified in infants. In many cases, babies who have these conditions often struggle with breastfeeding. These conditions can result in slow weight gain or even weight loss for the baby. Fortunately, an easy and minimal-risk procedure called a frenectomy can be performed to get rid of a tongue or lip tie.  

Tongue ties occur when the membrane under a baby’s tongue, known as the lingual frenulum, restricts tongue mobility. It’s a common defect in infants, but for some, it’s so tight that they can’t fully extend their tongues.

When a newborn has a lip tie, the membrane attaching their upper lip to their upper gums, called the labial frenulum, is exceptionally tight. This affects a baby’s ability to latch properly and effectively during breastfeeding. Lip ties often cause babies to take in excess air, resulting in increased gas and agitation.

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What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy, also called a frenotomy, is any procedure where binding tissue on the body is cut or modified. They’re common procedures and are typically performed during infancy. At State Street Smiles, our Hackensack dentist may recommend a frenectomy procedure to correct your child’s tongue or lip tie. 

Problems Caused by Tongue Ties

Tongue ties can result in several problems, including:

  • Difficulty latching while breastfeeding
  • Increased nipple discomfort or pain
  • Lowered milk intake
  • Gradual loss of milk supply

Symptoms To Look Out For

The most common symptom babies will experience with a tongue or lip tie is difficulty during breastfeeding. Other signs that infants may show include:

  • Failure to latch properly
  • Insufficient weight gain
  • Coughing or gagging
  • Blisters on or around the lip
  • Gas discomfort or pain
  • Loud breathing or snoring while sleeping
  • Colic symptoms, like intense crying or screaming

If you’ve noticed these symptoms in your infant, contact your child’s pediatrician or trusted Hackensack dentist to schedule an appointment. We’ll gently examine your child to determine if they have a tongue or lip tie and whether treatment is recommended.

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sad baby

Tongue and Lip Tie Treatments

If your baby has a lip or tongue tie and requires correction, Dr. Eddie can perform a procedure called a frenectomy to improve tongue or lip mobility. Frenectomies are safe and quick procedures that are conveniently performed here at our Hackensack office.

Thanks to the iplus Waterlase laser, Dr. Eddie can remove the tissue or tight frenulum under the tongue or lip with utmost precision and comfort. Frenectomies can also prevent further health problems, such as tooth decay, speech impediments, and digestive complications.

Dr. Eddie is a board-certified pediatric dentist and Laser Frenectomy specialist so you can trust that your child is in good hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a frenectomy painful?
How do I care for my child after a frenectomy?
Can my baby’s tongue or lip tie resolve itself?
What are the benefits of the iplus Waterlase laser?
Is a frenectomy painful?

No, the frenectomy procedure isn’t painful. At State Stree Smiles, we perform all frenectomy procedures with the iplus Waterlase laser for greater precision and comfort. Laser dentistry causes minimal discomfort and very little bleeding for a faster recovery period.

How do I care for my child after a frenectomy?

Your baby will likely experience mild discomfort or minor pain following a frenectomy. However, this should subside within two to three days and they’ll be able to breastfeed immediately after the procedure. We’ll provide you with patient-friendly postoperative instructions and vitamin E capsules to aid a healthy and successful recovery.

Can my baby’s tongue or lip tie resolve itself?

On occasion, a tongue tie can resolve itself during early childhood. The frenum can loosen naturally, and your child can have a full range of movement. Lip ties nearly always require medical intervention. However, you should always have your dentist examine your child’s mouth to recommend the best course of action. Schedule a visit with Dr. Edward Jackson or Dr. Dina Jackson for help making the decision that is right for your baby.

What are the benefits of the iplus Waterlase laser?

There are many advantages to performing a frenectomy using the iplus Waterlase laser, including:

  • Minimal discomfort or pain
  • Reduced bleeding during and after the procedure
  • Faster recovery period
  • Bactericidal (disinfectant) forces
  • Increased accuracy and precision

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today!

To learn more about frenectomies, call our Hackensack dental office at (201) 487-7030, or simply fill out a contact form located below. We’ll get back to you and schedule your complimentary consultation with our outstanding pediatric dentist.

Our State Street Smiles team looks forward to meeting you and your little one!

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