Laser Frenectomies
Dental lasers are a medical technology that emits a beam of concentrated light. When used for surgical and periodontal procedures, the laser acts as a cutting instrument. The procedures performed with dental lasers are minimally invasive and preferable to conventional surgery.
At Berkshire Pediatric Dentistry, we use lasers to perform frenectomies with no noise, minimal pain, less bleeding, faster recovery times, and fewer appointments.
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure performed to release the connection of the “frenum,” a connective muscle between two tissues. There are two types of oral frenectomies that are frequently performed on children for a variety of reasons.
Labial Frenectomy
A Labial Frenectomy, or lip release, is performed on the tissue that connects the lip to the gums. This may be performed on children to aid with orthodontic treatment or to help with the proper fitting for an oral appliance.
Lingual Frenectomy
A Lingual Frenectomy may also be referred to as the release of tongue-ties (ankyloglossia). This procedure is performed on the connective tissue under the tongue. The procedure is often performed on neonatal patients to assist with nursing or on toddlers or older patients who need the surgery to help correct speech issues caused by limited movement due the the frenum.
Some additional benefits lasers have over traditional methods include:
- Reduced heat and vibration
- Little or no need for anesthetic
- Minimal bleeding
- Faster treatment time
- Reduced damage to healthy tissues
- Minimal post-operative swelling and discomfort
- Fewer infections or post-operative complications