Effective Tongue Tie Solutions: Enhance Speech, Breastfeeding Success, and Tongue Movement

A frenectomy is necessary in cases where:

1. The lingual frenum is too long and affects tongue function.
2. A large maxillary labial frenum attached close to the teeth creates a gap between the front teeth.

Yes, but if you plan to have the surgery on the same visit, it’s advisable to wait until after the procedure to avoid regurgitation and potential aspiration of milk.

The WaterLase dental LASER utilizes a combination of water stream and laser-generated energy to safely and accurately remove tooth decay, reshape bone, and re-contour gum tissue. It is used in various procedures such as tooth decay removal, gingivitis treatment, bone surgeries, and cosmetic dentistry.

If left untreated into adulthood, tongue tie can cause:

1. Breathing problems during sleep (SDB)
2. Obstructive sleep apnea
3. Back, neck, and shoulder pain
4. TMD/TMJ (jaw joint pain)
5. Migraines or chronic headaches

A thick frenum can lead to:

1. Speech difficulties due to restricted tongue movements
2. Diastema (spacing between upper front teeth)
3. Mouth breathing from limited lip movement
4. Decreased confidence due to speech difficulties or noticeable spacing
5. Unstable dentures if the frenum interferes with denture stability

Frenectomy is a surgical procedure typically performed under local anesthesia to remove or loosen the tissue bands attached to the ear, cheek, or floor of the mouth. This procedure enhances tongue movement or reduces the gap between the upper front teeth. Depending on the dentist, a frenectomy can be carried out using a scalpel, electrosurgery, laser, or a combination of these methods.

In a conventional frenectomy, the tight frenulum is excised using surgical scissors. This procedure is quick but usually requires local anesthesia. In contrast, a laser frenectomy often does not need local anesthesia due to its minimal procedural pain. Lasers allow dental professionals to avoid excessive bleeding, reduce the risk of post-surgery infections, and minimize complications. They also offer a precision that traditional tools cannot match.

Post-surgery, some babies may sleep more, have shorter and more frequent breastfeeding sessions, and experience increased drooling. As soreness decreases, the tongue adjusts, and you may notice improved latching. The tongue may require time to adapt or therapy for strengthening the oral musculature. Minor bleeding during tissue exercises is usually not a concern, and drooling will normalize as the wound heals.

Many dental insurance companies do not cover the procedure, as tongue tie is classified as a congenital medical condition. However, medical insurance often covers both the consultation exam and the procedure. We provide a health insurance claim form for you to submit to your insurance company. Most patients receive some form of reimbursement, although we are not in-network with health insurance companies. Payment is required at the time of service, and we will discuss all fees before treatment begins.

Unfortunately, there is limited training on tongue and lip ties in medical, dental, nursing, or other health-related professional schools. Doctors treating tissue ties must pursue additional education. Dr. Adatrow has sought further education in surgical treatment of oral tissues for nearly two decades, ensuring the best possible care with a success rate of around 97%.

With modern technologies like laser and sedation dentistry, the procedure is less painful. Research and experience show that infant fussiness is minimal. The procedure takes about 10-15 seconds and is comparable to routine vaccination discomfort. Dr. Adatrow ensures minimal discomfort by treating each child with the utmost care.

Tongue ties have been documented since ancient times, with literature dating back to biblical times. While treatment methods have evolved, laser technology now offers a safe and effective approach for tongue tie treatment. Our WaterLase technology ensures precise treatment and a faster healing process compared to traditional methods.

For safety, we ask you to wait in the reception area during the procedure. Our doctors prefer to focus solely on the procedure to ensure efficiency. We use protective eyewear for the baby, and our staff will guide you to the treatment room immediately after the procedure to comfort and feed your baby. Many mothers notice an immediate improvement in their child’s feeding.

At Advanced Dental Implant & TMJ Center, we offer the same specialized care as corporate dental clinics but prioritize patient welfare and satisfaction over revenue. Dr. Adatrow closely monitors each patient’s condition and provides a personalized treatment plan. As the most experienced WaterLase dentist in the area, we ensure high-quality care and consider every patient part of our family.

At Advanced Dental Implants & TMJ Center, we strive to provide world-class care. Dr. Adatrow is dedicated to personalized care, spending time with each patient to understand their condition and recommend the best treatment. With extensive training from the University of Tennessee and Indiana University, Dr. Adatrow specializes in gum diseases, laser treatments, crown lengthening, and sedation dentistry. As the only board-certified periodontist and prosthodontist in the southern United States with over 17 years of experience, he ensures exceptional care. Our clinic, voted Desoto County’s Best Dental Specialty Clinic, provides personalized, specialized care, and sedation dentistry in the Memphis, Southaven, and Olive Branch areas.