Lip and tongue tie are not at all uncommon for babies — and when either is present, they need to be corrected to prevent issues with nutrition, speech, and oral development. Visiting a holistic dentist in Southlake can help your baby enjoy a more comfortable and easier frenectomy (the procedure for treating lip/tongue tie). Keep reading to learn why a dentist like Dr. Thomas prefers the CO2 soft tissue laser for frenectomies.
What Is Lip/Tongue Tie?
Lip/tongue tie is a condition in which there is excess tissue connecting the lip or tongue to the mouth. This bit of tissue is known as a “frenulum” — and when it is too tight or restrictive, the frenulum can cause real issues for baby as they grow. Some of the problems that can occur as a result of lip/tongue tie include:- Difficulty latching on during feeding
- Pain while breastfeeding
- Low mobility of the tongue
- A gassy or irritable baby
- Frequent feedings
Benefits of CO2 Soft Tissue Laser for Lip/Tongue Tie
The traditional method of correcting lip/tongue tie has required a scalpel and sutures — an invasive procedure associated with moderate discomfort and longer healing times. However, today the lip/tongue tie can be performed with a soft tissue laser. Your holistic dentist prefers the CO2 laser, a state-of-the-art option which uses a maximally efficient wavelength for increased precision and comfort. With the CO2 laser, a concentrated beam of light allows your holistic dentist to cut through the excess tissue in seconds. This method offers a number of benefits for baby and parents alike. Some of the most considerable advantages of the soft tissue laser for frenectomy include:- More comfortable procedure
- Laser minimizes bleeding
- Virtually no discomfort during the procedure
- No stitches are required
- Baby can feed immediately after
- Faster recovery
