How You Can Benefit from Getting Dental Fillings

Don’t feel bad if your dentist tells you that you need dental fillings. Fillings help fight tooth decay and can prolong the life of your tooth. If you want to learn why fillings can help you keep your teeth in good condition, here are some facts to consider.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling goes inside a tooth with a filling; its name implies that function. The dentist has to clean the cavity first, which involves administering anesthesia if the filling is in a deep tooth or if the cavity is large. The filling is then hardened with a curing light. Shaping and polishing follow. The tooth will have support during chewing and protection against future damage and decay.

When to Get Dental Fillings

Bacteria in the mouth accumulate over time, and these bacteria become acidic. The acid corrodes the teeth and causes cavities, which are tiny holes at first. If the holes go untreated, they become worse. The cavities become so deep that they extend into the dentin and pulp of the tooth. The tooth becomes sensitive to cold and heat, and it starts to hurt. A filling is required to prevent further damage to the tooth.

How Fillings Preserve Teeth

Dental fillings are a standard treatment for restoring cavities. A filling is often referred to as a dental restoration because it is used to restore what is missing: the enamel in a cavity. Common fillings materials are amalgam, resin, gold, and ceramic. Also, your dentist will scrape away all decay and replace it with the filling before they seal it in. 

Fillings preserve tooth shape and structure by preventing cavities from spreading or causing further damage to them. In addition, they keep out bacteria and prevent the decay from spreading deeper into the tooth.

Dentists do not last forever, either. The American Dental Association states that the average dentist retires at age 68 after practicing for 26 years. Our teeth also do not last forever; our fillings fall apart, exposing the cavity that has formed underneath. Dentists can inspect filling cavities and use x-rays to reveal cavities beneath the filling.

How Fillings Prevent Further Damage

It is always preferable to detect a cavity before it gets to the point where it requires a crown to fix it. A filling is cheaper and less time-intensive than a crown, and the dentist can stop the decay from spreading with a filling. This is preferable to waiting until the cavity has reached a point where a crown is needed because the crown is even more expensive and time-consuming. 

The other option after this point is either extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant or performing a root canal on the remaining tooth. These options both cost more money and require even more time to complete. There is also the potential for additional issues like infections and further problems with other teeth in the mouth.

Conclusion

Are you feeling a twinge of pain in your tooth? A cavity may be forming. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss ways to prevent further damage. A filling may be suggested to you, and it is always preferable to prevent further damage to your teeth. Even though it is much more effort to get a filling than to wait for a tooth to fall out simply, your dentist may suggest that it is worth it in the long run.

Established in 1991 by Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, Lexington Smile Studio sets the standards for exceptional care where we provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. If you’re interested in Invisalign treatment in Lexington, we’re here to help! Book an appointment today and get the smile of your dreams next!

4 Things You Need to Know before Getting Dental Veneers

What is the main purpose of veneers? Well, they help your teeth look better! Whether you’re trying to hide permanent stains or simply hide injured teeth, dental veneers can help bring back that beautiful smile of yours.

That said, if you are interested in getting veneers, it first pays to know a couple of things about it before you get it done! Here are some of the things you should know:

The Process Will Require Multiple Visits

The process of getting a dental veneer will require multiple visits. The process will start with your initial consultation appointment and schedule your next appointment to get the veneers.

During your consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and determine the right shape, size, color, and surface of the veneer that you want. The dentist will also take your picture before the consultation appointment. In the process, an impression of the teeth will also be made to create the veneers.

Once that’s done, you will be sent home and then notified at a later date to set up an appointment to get the veneers to be fitted on your teeth.

The Procedure Is Painless and Quick

One of the reasons why people are interested in getting this type of procedure done is because of how painless and quick it is. While veneers are not as quick as getting a filling or a tooth removed, it does not hurt too much.

Keep in mind, however, that a local anesthetic may be applied if required. This is usually the case if tooth decay is the underlying problem of your teeth. The dentist will use the anesthetic to ensure you don’t experience pain while the tissue is being removed, after which the veneers will be placed.

Veneers Can Last a Long Time

It is important to know that dental veneers can last up to 15 years at least. The biggest factor in how long your dental veneers will last is how well you take care of them, along with the material they’re made of, which will get to in a bit.

As a rule of thumb, you should always brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day. This will help keep your veneers pristine. You can also use whitening toothpaste to keep the veneers looking as white as they can be.

There Are Different Types of Veneers

As mentioned earlier, veneers can be made from different materials. Some are porcelain, others composite, and there are still a few others. Either way, most, if not all, of these veneers can easily last you ten years.

Again, while the material may have a huge impact on how long it lasts, keep in mind that good oral habits trumps all! It can be the difference between a veneer lasting a measly five years versus one that goes past 10.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that dental veneers are fantastic dental procedures to have. You can get it done as a stand-alone procedure or as a part of a more comprehensive dental plan. Either way, dental veneers can greatly improve the way your teeth look. And, now that you know more about veneers, we hope you’re more confident going into the procedure and, in the end, know that you’ll come out with a stunning smile!

Lexington Smile Studio offers exceptional dental services to help anyone and everyone get the stunning smile they deserve. If you are looking for the best veneers in Boston, get in touch with us today!

Reasons to Consider Clear Aligners Even as an Adult

There are many reasons why an adult should consider Invisalign, clear aligner teeth straightening technology. It is a system of plastic aligners that help patients fix tooth gaps and achieve good dental health. Invisalign helps orthodontic patients with malocclusion and other dental disorders.

Invisalign is a perfect alternative to metal braces. It is made from clear, comfortable plastic and uses a series of aligners that gradually straighten the teeth as they are worn over time. This way, the user can see his or her progress in real-time. Changing or removing the aligners is easy, too.

Here are some of the benefits of investing in Invisalign:

It Further Enables Dental Hygiene

The benefits of Invisalign clear aligners are that they are removable and that they help maintain dental hygiene. Unlike metal braces that interfere with good dental health, clear braces can be removed more easily. They also need not be cleaned as often as metal braces because food can get stuck in them.

They can brush and floss their teeth besides cleaning their aligners before putting them back on.

It Fixes Overbites and Underbites

One common concern of Invisalign users is the overbite or underbite that they might have. You have an overbite if your teeth extend further than your lower jaw. The opposite of this is when the lower teeth extend further than the upper front teeth; this is an underbite. Overbite might be genetic, and it is also possible that your jaw did not develop properly during childhood. Underbites and overbites can result in gum irritation and tooth dysfunction if they are not treated.

They Are Affordable

With Invisalign, patients can be treated a lot more quickly and with fewer visits to the orthodontist. This makes Invisalign treatment very affordable, even for people on low incomes. Because of this, Invisalign is suitable for nearly anyone.

They Are Almost Unnoticeable

Not only are Invisalign aligners less expensive and more comfortable than braces, but they are also almost completely unobtrusive. Invisalign is made of clear aligners that fit over your teeth and can be removed easily; they look similar to a retainer. This helps fit Invisalign in with the rest of your teeth, creating a natural-looking smile.

They Do Not Limit Your Meal Time

If you’re a foodie using traditional braces, you’ll have to sample your favorite foods while avoiding certain bites due to the risk of damaging your braces. With Invisalign, though, there are few food restrictions. Since you can remove the aligners before you take a bite of your favorite meal, this is because the aligners protect your teeth from damage.

They Are Flexible and Comfortably Adjust to Your Teeth

Clear aligners have been improved significantly in recent years. Newer ones are thinner, they are attached in a way that feels comfortable, and they are even better at giving you a natural smile. An aesthetic expert can make your aligners fit your teeth comfortably and smoothly.

Conclusion

People wonder whether “am I too old for Invisalign?” The answer is simple. If you believe that you need to fix your teeth, Invisalign will do just that. Besides the fact that Invisalign is adjustable and convenient, it is also affordable.

Book your consultation for Invisalign clear aligners with us here at Lexington Smile Studio today! We set the standards for exceptional care, providing a full range of dental services for your entire family!

What Is Nitrous Oxide and How Does It Work for Dentistry?

If you’ve heard of “laughing gas,” you’ve probably heard of nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a naturally occurring gas commonly used in sedation dentistry. It is a very safe type of anesthesia when applied cautiously and under the supervision of a specialist.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a natural gas that makes up about 0.04 percent of the earth’s atmosphere. On its own, nitrous oxide is not very useful in the medical field. However, it is often mixed with oxygen in a 50:50 ratio for anesthesia and sedation in dentist’s offices.

Some people find it hard to calm down, sit still, or keep their mouth open during restorative care or a root canal. A simple and effective way to keep a patient calm while the dentist works is to give them nitrous oxide. 

Moreover, nitrous oxide is a good sedative for dentistry because it works quickly, is safe overall, and doesn’t take long for the patient to wake up after it’s given. N2O helps you relax while your teeth are fixed and lets you return to your everyday life quickly after your dentist visit.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

When nitrous oxide is inhaled, it dissolves into the bloodstream quickly. This is why your body only needs 5 to 10 seconds to feel the effects of nitrous oxide.

The gas works by interfering with communication between nerves and the brain. This prevents pain messages from reaching the brain. The gas helps to relax the muscles and your body and is also known for its calming effects.

Nitrous oxide is most commonly used during procedures requiring patients to remain still and open their mouths. It helps to keep them relaxed and slows down their heart rate. This is useful for invasive oral and dental procedures that require the mouth to remain open for a long time.

Furthermore, this form of anesthesia can be used with other types, such as general anesthesia. Nitrous oxide often helps to alleviate anxiety and nervousness, which can be helpful when trying to perform dental treatment on children and nervous adults.

Are There Any Side Effects of Nitrous Oxide?

There aren’t many side effects associated with nitrous oxide, but there are a few.

A common side effect is nausea. This can be a problem if you must be awake for several hours after being treated. If you have a procedure that lasts longer than a few minutes, your dentist might give you a small dose of painkillers before giving you the N2O.

Other side effects include minor dizziness, headaches, and even a type of intoxication that feels like a hangover. Nitrous oxide is a very safe and effective method of relieving anxiety. It’s an excellent choice for the proper patient who knows what to expect.

Conclusion

Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective way to minimize pain and anxiety. It’s an easy, effective way to relax patients who would otherwise be too nervous or anxious to undergo dental treatment.

Dental procedures are often uncomfortable, but nitrous oxide is a great way to make them less so. It’s a safe and effective way to quell your fears during dental treatments.

If you are looking for the best cosmetic dentist near you, Lexington Smile Studio is here to help! We set the benchmark for exceptional care by offering family dental services. We offer cosmetic, prosthodontic, implant, periodontic, and laser dentistry. Contact us for a consultation today!

Why the Frequency of Dental Cleanings Varies for Everyone

Most people are aware that visiting the dentist is important. However, the question of how often to do it is where a lot of people tend to have different opinions, particularly on the question of dental cleanings. Many experts suggest that a bi-annual cleaning is recommended for everyone. However, some studies suggest otherwise. Let’s dive deep into how often you should be going to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned.

Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Necessary

Dental cleanings are a necessity as they help to remove plaque, tartar, and other particles that could eventually lead to serious dental problems. This includes gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer.

Whether or not you had dental cleaning in the past, it’s essential that you continue to have them done on a regular schedule. Many people think that this is too expensive and can actually be bad for the teeth. However, the truth is that there is no substitute for dental cleanings done by a trained professional.

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

The question of how often to go to the dentist is a very important one. If you are not going to the dentist on a regular basis, it is crucial that you go as soon as possible. However, what is considered a regular basis? Most people would assume that going to the dentist every six months is a good idea. However, some studies suggest that this is not the case.

For those people who are in good health, it is suggested that you only need to go to the dentist once a year. However, if you have dental issues, it’s important that you go twice a year or even more. This is to make sure that the dental issues are caught and treated before they become worse.

Cleaning Frequency Based on Risk Factors

According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, preventive care for teeth and gums is crucial for people who smoke or have a history of diabetes and gum disease. These people are considered high-risk individuals and should be monitored on a more frequent basis.

Compared to low-risk individuals who have none of those factors associated with them, high-risk individuals have a six times more chance of developing gum disease. It is important for them to be monitored on a regular basis and to make sure that there is no further damage being done to the gums.

More frequent dental cleanings can help prevent tooth loss for people who have multiple risk factors for periodontal disease. These individuals typically need more than two cleanings per year. For people who only have one risk factor, two cleanings per year are usually enough to maintain good oral health.

Conclusion

Whether or not you think you have risk factors for some kind of dental issue, it is always a good idea to go to the dentist. 

They will be able to tell you if the frequency of your cleanings is the right amount for your particular situation. Regular cleanings will help to maintain your oral health and also prevent any kind of problems from happening in the future.

Finding a dental specialist you can trust is especially important if you want to prevent problems from arising in the first place. At Lexington Smile Studio, we have the most experienced dentists and dental specialists in the area. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Whenever you need help from a Lexington teeth whitening and oral health expert, our clinic is the place to be. Schedule an appointment today!

7 Advantages of Dental Implants as Teeth Replacement

Dental implants are far superior to tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges. This article will explain in detail why implants are the best choice.

Dental Implants Allow You to Speak without Issues

If your dentures aren’t anchored to your bone, they can slip around when you’re speaking. This makes it hard to speak clearly. To make all speech sounds clear, your tongue must sometimes press against your teeth. If your teeth aren’t stable, they can interfere with your speech.

Like your natural teeth, dental implants are just as sturdy, letting you speak clearly.

Dental Implants Allow You to Bite and Chew Normally

You can still eat whatever you want with dental implants, making them the best choice for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which can slip and make it difficult to eat, dental implants are anchored in your jawbone, giving you the full biting and chewing power similar to natural teeth.

Whether you need one dental implant or several to replace your teeth, you’ll be able to eat all your favorite foods.

Dental Implants Are the Most Natural-Looking Tooth Replacement Option

Because dentures have a base usually made of plastic or metal, it doesn’t look as natural as natural teeth. Plus, they slide out of place. Dental bridges may look natural but don’t descend into the gums and bones. Receding gums can create a gap under the bridge, revealing that it’s not a natural tooth.

On the other hand, dental implants are embedded in the bone, just like natural teeth.

Dental Implants Preserve Bone Mass

The bone in our jaw can regenerate itself. Once stimulated, stem cells can cause the healing process to begin. However, when we lose teeth, that stimulation disappears, and the jawbone slowly loses mass. If this goes on for a long enough time, it can create a sunken appearance in the cheeks and weaken the surrounding teeth.

Dental implants, similar to our natural tooth roots, can help preserve bone mass and protect other teeth by stimulating the jaw to heal itself.

Dental Implants Make You Feel Comfortable

Dentures sit on your gums, which can feel painful and strange since they are not your natural teeth. Your gums may toughen up over time, but they will never be as strong as bone. Because of this, you may feel discomfort from your dentures for years.

Meanwhile, dental implants are attached to your bone, similar to how your natural teeth are anchored. Your dental implants will feel like your natural teeth when biting and chewing.

Dental Implants Don’t Need Special Care

Dental implants won’t require special attention as long as you maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Ensure to brush and floss twice daily and visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning. This will help your implants stay healthy and will also help prevent gum disease and further tooth loss.

Dental Implants Can Last Decades

As long as you take care of your dental implants, they can last for decades. Studies have shown that dental implants can last for 20 years or more, and there are even accounts of implants lasting 50 years or more.

Implants should last just as long as any other tooth as they are taken care of. Although, the bridge or crowns on top of implants might only last 10-30 years

Conclusion

Dental implants can not only improve the way you look but also make it easier to eat and speak. They are also very strong and durable, with a 98 percent success rate. If you take care of them properly, they can last long enough to forget you have implants.

If you need a Lexington dentist offering dental implants, contact us today or book online to schedule an exam and consultation. Our office also offers prosthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, such as veneers and teeth whitening.

Things to Know on Frenectomy: What and Why Is It Important

If you’ve ever looked inside your mouth, you may have been able to identify your teeth, tongue, and gums. However, other parts also play an essential role in your mouth, like the tissue that connects your tongue to your mouth.

For some people, this tissue can be stronger than usual, which can cause problems as they grow and develop. In these cases, a frenectomy (a procedure to remove the tissue) may be the answer.

Here are some details you need to know about frenectomy:

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or modifying the frenum, a piece of soft tissue that connects different parts of the mouth. This surgery is often performed on infants with lip or tongue ties.

A lingual frenectomy, which is a procedure that is typically performed on infants, can improve the range of motion in the tongue. This, in turn, can allow the child to eat, drink, and speak properly as they grow older.

Maxillary frenectomies are surgery that helps improve oral hygiene and prevents gum disease. The surgery also helps with facial expressions and speech. 

What is the Process of Frenectomy?

Frenectomies are usually simple procedures performed by your doctor or dentist. However, in some cases, an oral surgeon or ENT specialist may be needed.

After the patient is given a numbing agent, the doctor or dentist proceeds to the next step. After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, the doctor or dentist uses a scalpel, surgical scissors, or a laser to make an incision in the tissue. 

If the cut is severe, you may need stitches. Using a laser to cut the tissue is less risky and results in less blood loss. Another option is to use a cauterizing tool that will cut the tissue.

How Long is the Frenectomy Recovery Process?

Recovering from a frenectomy is usually easy since the procedure is straightforward. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection or complications. You should be able to return to your normal activities and eating habits within two to three days.

After a frenectomy, you should eat soft foods for a few days and avoid anything that could get stuck in the healing area. You may have discomfort, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter medication.

Do You Need a Frenectomy After Braces?

A frenectomy is a procedure that some people need as part of their orthodontic treatment. It helps to reposition the tongue or eliminate a gap between the front teeth. Your orthodontist may suggest a frenectomy after you have worn braces for a while to ensure that the teeth and jaw stay in the proper position.

How to Diagnose and Perform a Frenectomy?

Doctors, dentists, oral surgeons, and ENTs know how to safely and correctly cut a tongue frenulum, while at-home attempts can lead to infection and other complications.

The best people to identify tongue or lip ties are your doctor, pediatrician, or dentist. While it is a common condition in infants, they could have it without needing a frenectomy, so it’s crucial to consult a trained professional instead of diagnosing it yourself.

Conclusion

A frenectomy is usually a harmless procedure and can improve your oral hygiene and eating habits. This procedure may be necessary if you have trouble opening your mouth normally or if you cannot breathe properly. Frenectomies are even more crucial if you cannot suck properly, swallow properly, or suck on a nipple.

Ask your doctor to show you pictures of what they have done in the past, and be sure to have a frank discussion about the surgery. Your doctor may also be able to tell you if your frenum is too short or if you have a lip tie.

If this is the case, they may suggest that you go to an ENT specialist for a frenectomy. If you think that you have a tongue or lip tie, you can schedule an appointment with our cosmetic dentists in Lexington.

Here’s What You Need to Know about Laser Gum Treatments

Laser gum treatments effectively treat gingival (gum) and more advanced periodontal diseases. These diseases are infections of the supporting tissues and bone that hold the tooth in place. They can be caused by many things: poor oral health, bad luck with genetics, chronic illnesses such as diabetes, smoking, and certain medicines.

Traditional procedures for periodontal disease are called scaling and root planing. These clean the surfaces of teeth and their roots that could be exposed due to gum recession. However, these directly hit the gum surface, adding to the problem instead of resolving it.

Dental laser treatment is a much more tissue-preserving and regenerative process. At Lexington Smile Studio, our dental team uses the laser to access any infected gum pockets to eliminate the infected tissue and bacteria. Once the infected tissue is excised and the root is exposed, the calculus can be removed with an ultrasonic root cleaner.

Treatment Phases

When treating periodontal disease, your dentist will take you through three different phases of treatment. These include:

• The etiological phase.
• The surgical phase.
• The maintenance phase.

How Laser Gum Treatments Work

Lasers are powerful, pinpointed beams of light that can perform multiple tasks during gum surgery, such as cutting and removing the diseased tissue, coagulating blood vessels, killing germs and bacteria, and sterilizing the pocket.

Lasers create an energy change in atoms. The laser light shifts bits from their current resting state to a stage known as the excited state. This causes the particles to produce energy through a process named spontaneous emission.

When the atoms are again at rest, they emit particles of light known as photons, providing the necessary energy to perform certain functions, such as cutting tissue without a blade.

Laser light can cause reactions in tissue, including removal, vaporization, or shaping soft tissues like gums, cheeks, and tongue, or hard tissues like decay. Thus, laser dentistry is an excellent option for many people because it can decrease the pain of a procedure and reduce the need for anesthesia—no needles or injections. While no treatment is always painless, the laser may reduce the need for postoperative pain medication and may reduce swelling and bleeding.

Why Laser Gum Treatments Are Preferred

While the American Dental Association (ADA) has not yet approved the use of lasers for treating gum disease, a small body of evidence indicates that laser gum treatments are safe and effective for many dental conditions, including gum disease.

For instance, the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) reviewed current evidence and summarized that appropriate laser therapy might provide a modest advantage over traditional procedures. However, the AAP still cautioned that evidence is limited and more research is recommended on the use of lasers.

The FDA has also approved using laser gum treatments since 1994 despite the qualms of the ADA, specifically for:

• Endodontic treatments
• Periodontal treatments
• Oral surgery
• Tooth whitening procedures

This is probably because laser gum treatments:

• Are less invasive.
• Keep more of your healthy teeth.
• Reduce bleeding.
• Reduce risks of infection.
• Speed up healing time

Despite the above advantages, it is best to consult with a periodontist trained to work with lasers if you get laser gum treatments.

Book Your Appointment Now

Schedule a session at Lexington Smile Studio today for safe laser gum treatments! We use exceptional care standards through our full range of dental services: cosmetic, prosthodontics, implants, periodontics, and laser!

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which One Should You Choose?

Invisalign continues to be compared to braces, and for a good reason. Both dental treatments can straighten the teeth, but the question of many is, which is better? In this post, we will explore these two dental procedures and help you make the right decision.

How Does Invisalign Work

Invisalign is clear plastic aligners that are worn over the teeth. These aligners are very comfortable and are virtually invisible. There is no metal with this treatment and they are very comfortable to wear. They are made from thermoplastic, a strong and durable plastic that can withstand the permanent pressure of the teeth. They fit the contours of the mouth and teeth and can be manipulated for adjustments.

The aligners are worn 23 hours a day and then taken off at night and cleaned. These need to be replaced every two weeks to align the teeth properly. They are worn for 22 weeks and then the teeth are assessed again.

How Do Braces Work

Braces are made in a dentist office, fitted to the teeth and adjusted to fit after the teeth are straightened. They are made from metal and are put on with brackets that are bonded to the teeth. They are worn all day long. The procedure takes about 18 months to correct the teeth and lasts for up to 7 years.

The Results

Invisalign, just like traditional braces, works to straighten teeth. There are some people that prefer Invisalign over braces because they are easier to wear and are less visible. However, braces work better for some people because they are stronger and can more easily withstand the tension of the teeth. Invisalign may not be strong enough for some people, but it depends on the case.

The Cost

The cost of both Invisalign and braces is similar. Both probably will cost between $4000 and $6000. Braces are more expensive because they must be fabricated and adjusted to fit the teeth.

Invisalign is something that is fairly new. Although there is a lot of good about this treatment, there are some things to be aware of. The treatment plan is not as customized as braces. 

Invisalign can only do so much. Not everyone can be treated with Invisalign, and some treatments are not as effective in this form of treatment. The other thing to be aware of is the maintenance. Since the aligners are removed at night, there is the potential for teeth to shift. You can do several things to prevent this if it is happening.

Which is Better

The question of which is better is a matter of opinion. They both work very well in straightening teeth to give you a great smile. The difference is the look of the treatment. Take a look at these photos to see the difference.

The Bottomline

In conclusion, both Invisalign and braces are great dental treatments. These two treatments have been around for a long time and proven very effective. Which to use is a matter of what you prefer. If you are looking for a more discreet and comfortable dental treatment, then Invisalign may be a better option for you. If you like the metal appearance of braces, then braces may be better for you.

Get the best Invisalign in Lexington today. Lexington Smile Studio was established in 1991. We set the standards for exceptional care where we provide a full range of dental services. Set an appointment with us today.

Can Laser Surgery Help With Your Child’s Lip or Tongue-Tie?

A mother and her newborn struggle with breastfeeding; a child unable to pronounce certain sounds; A teenager shying away from eating in public. What do all of these people have in common? They could be experiencing problematic effects of a tongue-tie or lip-tie. 

What are Tongue-Ties and Lip-Ties?

Ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, is a condition in which the tongue is tethered to the floor of the mouth by a thin strip of tissue called the frenulum. This can limit the tongue’s range of motion and make it difficult to breastfeed, eat, or speak properly. A lip-tie is a similarly restrictive frenulum located between the upper lip and gum.

While both conditions are relatively common—estimates suggest that as many as 10% of newborns have some form of ankyloglossia—they often go undiagnosed and untreated. This is because tongue-ties and lip-ties are often harmless and cause no problems for most people who have them. However, for those who do experience difficulties, treatment options are available.

What are the Long-Term Effects of Tongue-Ties and Lip-Ties?

If left untreated, tongue-ties and lip-ties can cause several problems. Tongue-ties can make it difficult to breastfeed, as the baby is unable to latch on properly. This can lead to weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. Lip-ties can interfere with proper dental development, leading to an incorrect bite (malocclusion). They can also cause gaps between the teeth (diastema), gum disease, and tooth decay.

In addition to these physical problems, tongue-ties and lip-ties can also lead to difficulties with speech. Because they impede the movement of the tongue and lips, people with these conditions often have trouble making certain sounds. This can result in a lisp or other speech impediment. Additionally, tongue-ties and lip-ties are often associated with emotional difficulties such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

How is Ankyloglossia Treated?

One common treatment is laser surgery, which can be used to release the frenulum and improve function. Laser surgery for ankyloglossia is a quick, relatively painless procedure with a high success rate. For most people, this is the only treatment necessary to resolve the problem.

In some cases, however, a second surgery may be needed to completely release the frenulum. This is more likely to be necessary if the tongue-tie or lip-tie is particularly severe or if the person has had previous surgery that was not successful.

What are the Benefits of Laser Surgery?

Laser surgery for ankyloglossia can have several benefits, including:

• improved ability to breastfeed
• improved ability to eat and drink
• improved speech production
• reduced risk of gum disease and tooth decay
• improved oral hygiene

What are the Risks of Laser Surgery?

Laser surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgery, there are some risks involved. These include:

• bleeding
• infection
• pain or discomfort
• swelling

In rare cases, more serious complications can occur, such as damage to the tongue or lip. However, these complications are extremely rare and are usually the result of inexperience on the part of the surgeon. 

If you or your child is experiencing difficulties due to a tongue-tie or lip-tie, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Laser surgery is a safe and effective way to improve function and quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tongue-ties and lip-ties can cause several problems, but luckily, there is an effective treatment option available. If you or your child is experiencing difficulties due to a tongue-tie or lip-tie, talk to your doctor about laser surgery.

Are you looking for a tongue-tie doctor in Lexington, MA? Lexington Smile Studio offers treatments for tongue-tie or lip-tie in adults. Book your appointment today!