Frenectomy in Kansas City

Most babies experience only minimal discomfort or fussiness after the procedure, and breastfeeding provides natural pain relief. If your baby seems uncomfortable, Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be given to help with the discomfort. Please speak with your doctor/pharmacist if you are unsure about what dose of medication to give, and remember that medication dosages should always be based on your baby’s weight.

For older children and adults, over the counter pain medications can be taken according to manufacturer instructions to help with discomfort. Warm salt water rinses may be used to help the healing process. Avoid spicy, salty, and citrus foods.

Within the first 24-48 hours after the procedure, a grayish-white patch will form in the area(s) where the incision was made with the laser. This is the space that was created for improved lip and/or tongue movement. This is NOT infection or thrush and the tissue will thicken and return to its normal appearance in about 2 weeks. Slight puffiness of the lip is also normal since the lip had to be held and pulled to complete the procedure.

Your child’s mouth heals quickly, and stretching exercises are very important after the procedure for:

– Optimal healing of the incision sites

– Optimal tongue mobility and functionality

– Prevention of re-attachment and scar formation

– Improved feeding skills and maternal-infant bonding

The mouth heals quickly, and stretching exercises are very important after the procedure. The exercises are designed to assist in optimal healing of the incision sites, optimal tongue mobility and function, prevention of re-attachment and scar formation.

Exercises should be done four times daily. For 3 weeks, but most importantly in the first 48 hours.

For infants and children make sure your hands are clean and your fingernails are short, you will be doing the stretches and wound care for them. It is usually easiest to perform the stretches while positioned with the child’s head in your lap.
Begin stretches day of the procedure. Continue therapy with speech or myofunctional therapy, following any additional exercises they provide.

– Place your thumbs or index fingers under the tongue on either side of the incision.

– Lift the tongue while gently pushing back at the same time so you can see the diamond shaped area where the incision was made, hold for 3 seconds.

– Rub 10 circles with your index finger around the release site. If you feel a “pop” that is normal and is the scar tissue releasing.

– There may be a small amount of blood as the area stretches, which is normal.

– Use your index fingers and thumbs to lift the upper lip until it reaches/covers the nostrils and hold for 3 seconds.

– Then gently massage the outside of the lip just below the nose.