Laser Frenuloplasty of the Lips and Tongue

Laser frenuloplasty of the lips and tongue is a type of dental treatment that is accompanied by a minor surgical intervention, usually in childhood. The frenulum of the tongue and of the upper and lower lips are small mucous folds that are very important for the proper operation of the dental system. If shortening, thickening or damage to these folds is present, this can lead to a number of problems, especially in childhood. To avoid complications, a minor surgical intervention, or laser surgery of the frenulum, is performed. For children, the optimal age for frenuloplasty of the tongue is up to 6 months, and the frenulum of the upper lip is 8-10 years old.

Problems with the frena of the lips and tongue

Problems with the frena of the lips and tongue can lead to the following consequences:

• articulation problems (especially in childhood);
• laborious breathing;
• problems with swallowing (including breastfeeding of infants);
• insufficient blood supply to the tissues surrounding the tooth;
• abnormal occlusion formation.

Advantages of laser frenuloplasty

• when using a laser, excess tissue is burned out, and damaged vessels and the wound surface are immediately fused together, which prevents bleeding;
• this procedure is fast and practically painless (the usage of anesthetic gels is enough);
• this method is more accurate, less traumatic for soft tissues and absolutely sterile;
• the recovery process is much faster than with the traditional surgery.

Recommendations after laser frenuloplasty

• do not drink and eat within 2 hours after the procedure;
• for a few days products that irritate the mucous (spicy, salty, sour) should be excluded from the diet;
• after each meal, the oral cavity should be treated with special antiseptic solutions;
• the doctor may recommend special exercises for the formation of a soft scar and strengthening the muscles;
• in case of articulation problems, additional training with a speech therapist may be required.