Laser Dentistry: Precision Procedures for Oral Wellness
At Desert Hills Dental, under the care of Dr. Clarissa Burgess in Farmington, NM, we harness cutting-edge laser technology to elevate your oral health. Our services include specialized procedures like frenectomy, catering to children and infants facing challenges with tongue and lip ties. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us at (505) 327-4863.
Understanding Infant Tongue Ties and Lip Ties
Tongue ties and lip ties in infants can impact crucial aspects of their development, including breastfeeding and speech. Early detection and intervention are key to ensuring optimal growth and well-being. If you are concerned that your child may be suffering from a tongue or lip tie, consult with your Primary Care Provider, Speech & Language Pathologist, Lactation Consultant, or Myofunctional Therapist throughout this process. You can trust our advanced training and laser technology for the safest and most effective solution for your little one.
What Is Laser Frenectomy?
Laser frenectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat tongue-ties and lip-ties by removing excess tissue using laser technology. The primary goal of laser frenectomy is to release restrictive frenulum attachments, improving speech, feeding, and oral function.
Our commitment to excellence is evident in our use of laser technology for frenectomy procedures. Laser precision ensures minimal discomfort, reduced bleeding, and faster healing.
Other Laser Applications
Beyond infant care, our advanced laser technology enables us to safely recontour and/or remove tissue within the oral cavity.
Why Your Child May Need a Frenectomy
A child’s lingual or labial frenum tissue should be evaluated during regular dental exams. A frenum that remains too tight as a child grows can contribute to various functional issues. Reasons a pediatric dentist may recommend a frenectomy procedure include:
- Breastfeeding Difficulties: A newborn with a tongue tie or lip tie may struggle to get a good latch while nursing leading to a decreased milk supply from mom. A simple frenotomy after birth can allow for better extension of the tongue to facilitate more effective feeding.
- Tooth and Jaw Misalignment: An upper lip or cheek frenum that doesn’t release properly can cause a gap between the front teeth. It can pull teeth out of alignment. Releasing the frenulum allows for proper positioning.
- Speech Development Issues: Limited tongue mobility from a tongue tie affects a child’s ability to form words correctly in early speech development. Removing restrictions can help improve speech clarity.
- Orthodontic Care: If a child requires braces, an abnormal frenum attachment site will negate treatment progress. It will continue pulling teeth out of corrected positions. A frenectomy is often required in conjunction with braces.
The first few years are a key developmental period for verbal skills and teeth alignment. Evaluating and surgically releasing frenulum ties prevents long-term issues with feeding, speech, and smile appearance. Laser frenectomies are simple and effective ways of dealing with abnormal frenulum attachments in children.
Benefits of Laser Technology
Laser frenectomy is an innovative approach to treatment that has become increasingly popular in dental care. Here are some key advantages:
- Minimally Invasive: Laser frenectomy is less traumatic compared to traditional methods, resulting in minimal pain, swelling, and bleeding.
- Faster Healing: With laser technology, patients experience quicker healing and recovery times compared to conventional methods and can resume normal activities sooner.
- Precision and Accuracy: Laser technology allows for precise tissue removal, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues and nerves.
- Hemostasis: Dental lasers provide excellent hemostatic control, minimizing bleeding during the procedure and reducing the need for sutures.
- Reduced Risk of Infection: Laser energy sterilizes the surgical site, reducing the risk of postoperative infections and promoting faster healing.
Laser Frenectomy Procedure
A laser frenectomy is a quick in-office procedure that takes approximately five to 10 minutes. Before the procedure, a topical anesthetic is applied to numb the area around the frenulum. The patient and our Farmington dentist wear protective eyewear while the procedure is performed.
Dr. Burgess uses a soft tissue diode laser to precisely target and remove the frenulum tissues. Most patients only feel slight warmth, tingling, and pressure sensations. She may massage the area to achieve hemostasis after lasering. Very little bleeding occurs due to the cauterization. No sutures or extensive aftercare are required.
Recovery
The area may remain numb for a couple of hours after the procedure. Patients should keep the area clean while healing over the next week. Dr. Burgess may recommend a saltwater rinse and a soft toothbrush to help keep the area clean. Discomfort is typically minimal, but over-the-counter pain medication can provide relief if needed. We’ll have you schedule a follow-up exam to assess healing.
Why Choose Our Dental Hills Dental Care Practice
At our practice, you’re in the hands of experienced professionals who leverage state-of-the-art laser technology for optimal results. You can trust that your child’s well-being is our highest priority. Here’s why Desert Hills Dental is the ideal choice for addressing your child’s tongue-tie:
- Expertise: Our Farmington dentists bring years of experience and expertise in laser dentistry, ensuring precise and effective treatment for your child’s tongue-tie.
- Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge laser technology, providing minimally invasive procedures with superior precision and faster healing times.
- Patient-Centered Care: Your child’s comfort and safety are paramount to us. We tailor our approach to meet their unique needs, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience.
- Comprehensive Services: From initial evaluation to postoperative care, Desert Hills Dental offers comprehensive services to support your and your child’s oral health journey every step of the way.
Trust Desert Hills Dental to provide compassionate care and exceptional outcomes for your child’s tongue-tie. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help.
How to Prepare for Your Baby’s Frenectomy
Getting your newborn or infant set for a laser frenectomy procedure may seem scary for parents. Proper preparation helps ease anxiety going into the short procedure. Here are some tips:
- Feed Shortly Before: The procedure is done on an empty stomach to reduce the chances of spitting up or vomiting. Feed your baby no more than one hour prior. This prevents hunger cries.
- Pain Management Discussion: Speak with Dr. Burgess about using topical anesthetics to keep your baby comfortable. There are baby-friendly options that work wonderfully.
- Comfort Items: Bring any item that soothes your child like a pacifier, blanket, or small toy. Having something comforting helps them remain calm.
- Secure Swaddling: Gently swaddle your infant to avoid sudden movements during the procedure. This protects them and makes lasering more efficient.
- Seat For Parents: If possible, have your partner or a friend come along to hold the swaddle wrapping steady. This gives you free hands to cradle and calm the baby’s head.
With a skilled dentist like Dr. Burgess and some simple preparation, your baby’s frenectomy will be over quickly. Take a few deep breaths pre-procedure and know the treatment is improving their feeding, speech, and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most adult patients report very little pain with this procedure. A topical anesthetic is used to numb the area first. Your child may feel some mild pressure or warmth from the laser, but it is not typically painful.
Yes, laser frenectomy is considered safe for children when performed by a trained and experienced dentist or oral surgeon. The use of laser technology minimizes the risk of complications and promotes faster recovery.
Healing is usually completed within one to two weeks. During the first few days, there may be some minor soreness at the site. Using salt water rinses helps facilitate quick healing.
Yes, follow-up appointments are essential to track your child’s healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Your dentist will schedule these appointments accordingly to ensure the best possible outcome for your child’s oral health.
Contact Us Now to Address Your Child’s Tongue Tie!
Ready to experience the benefits of laser dentistry at Desert Hills Dental? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Burgess today by calling us at (505) 327-4863. Take the first step towards enhancing your oral wellness and reclaiming your smile’s health and beauty. Our skilled team looks forward to improving the sleep quality of New Mexico patients in Bloomfield, Aztec, Upper Fruitland, Farmington, and the surrounding areas.