Infant Frenectomy
Following birth, most babies usually have a natural separation of the lingual frenum, which is a small bit of tissue under the tongue. But sometimes, this frenum does not detach the way it should, leading to a condition known as “tongue-tie” or ankyloglossia. The reasons why tongue-tie occurs are not known, but it seems to occur more often in boys and may be linked to certain genetic factors.
When a baby has a regular frenum, their tongue easily curves around their mother’s breast, helping them to latch on and nurse with ease. But for babies with tongue-tie, this latching can be extremely difficult, which means they do not receive the nutrition they need to grow strong and healthy.
A parent who has a child with tongue-tie may be presented with the option of an infant frenectomy. Infant frenectomy is a simple procedure that helps relieve frenum tightness and allows your baby to function better, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. While the thought of having performed on your infant may seem scary, it is important to keep in mind that a frenectomy is usually quick, painless, and has very low risk of complications.
While it is possible that your child may outgrow their tongue-tie, getting the frenectomy done as soon as possible is generally recommended. Prior to beginning the procedure, your child will be gently swaddled. Next, the doctor will lift their tongue and, using sterile scissors or a laser, will snip the frenum. Once it is snipped, they will conduct a review to make sure everything looks correct, and then the procedure will be complete. Babies can often go right back to breastfeeding immediately after the procedure, and in fact, many seem to find comfort in nursing right after the procedure.
Indications of Frenum Issues in Infants
It is important for parents to be aware of common indicators that their child may have frenum-related issues, which include the following:
- Difficulty latching
- Slipping off the nipple a lot
- Clicking sounds made while trying to nurse
- Cheeks seem sucked in during feeding
- Heart-shaped tip or noticeable dent on their tongue
Not every child with tongue-tie will show clear signs right from the beginning, which is why it is so important for parents to be aware of these indicators. If left untreated, tongue-tie can cause issues later on, such as a higher risk of periodontal disease. Because the tongue plays such an important role in removing food particles, when its mobility is limited, your child will be at increased risk of developing inflammation or cavities.
As children grow, they might face challenges with speech as well, perhaps struggling to say certain sounds or letters, or engaging in activities like licking an ice cream cone, kissing, or playing a woodwind instrument might be difficult. Gaps can also develop between the front teeth as a result of an irregular frenum.
The best thing you can do to ensure your child’s health is to keep an open line of communication with your pediatrician, especially if you notice any issues or have concerns. Acting quickly can help ensure your infant develops healthily and prevent any longer-term complications related to tongue-tie.