What is a Frenectomy?: Everything You Need to Know

Frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of tissue around the mouth, usually involving the frenulum. It is most commonly used to treat tongue-tie, which is a condition where the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight. Frenectomy is a relatively quick and simple outpatient procedure that can help to improve the ability to speak, swallow, and feed.

The frenulum can be located on the upper and lower lips, on the cheeks, and under the tongue. A frenectomy is usually performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about getting a frenectomy.

What is a Frenum?

A frenum is a small fold of tissue that anchors the lip, cheek, or tongue to the gums or jaw bone. It is a band of tissue that attaches the lip or tongue to the gums or jaw bone and is usually made up of muscle fibers, nerves, and blood vessels.

Frena are small pieces of tissue located in the mouth, typically underneath the tongue or in the lips. In some cases, they can become too tight, resulting in difficulty when it comes to swallowing, speaking, and eating.

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing or releasing a frenum, which is a band of tissue that connects two parts of the body. This type of procedure is most commonly performed on the lips, tongue, and gums. 

The purpose of a frenectomy is to provide more mobility and reduce the tension of the frenum, which can cause pain, difficulty eating, and difficulty speaking. In some cases, a frenectomy may be necessary to correct a congenital defect or to correct a problem that has developed due to certain medical conditions. 

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery time is usually short. In some cases, it can be done in a matter of minutes, while more complex cases may require several hours. After the procedure, the patient may experience some soreness, swelling, and/or bruising. 

Types of Frenectomy

1) Labial Frenectomy

A labial frenectomy is a surgical procedure that removes tissue from the lips. It can be used to correct issues such as a lip tie or a tongue tie. It is typically performed with local anesthetic in a clinical setting. 

It is a relatively quick and easy procedure that can help improve a person’s ability to speak, eat, and drink. It can also improve facial aesthetics by providing a more symmetrical lip line.

2) Lingual Frenectomy

Lingual frenectomy is a type of frenectomy that involves the removal of a small piece of tissue located on the underside of the tongue, known as the lingual frenulum. The procedure is usually performed in order to improve the patient’s ability to speak and swallow. 

In some cases, it can also help to reduce the risk of dental crowding and malocclusion. Lingual frenectomy is a relatively simple procedure that is generally considered to be safe and effective.

Final Thoughts: Is Frenectomy For You?

Frenectomy may be a good option for you if you are having difficulty speaking, swallowing, or have dental crowding or malocclusion. It is a relatively safe and straightforward procedure that can have a positive impact on your everyday life. However, it is important to consult with your doctor to make sure that this is the right treatment for you.

If you are considering a Frenectomy, Lexington Smile Studio will take care of that for you. We are a cosmetic dentist in Lexington providing the best dental care possible for you. Get in touch with us today to learn how.

How to Know If You Are in Need of a Deep Dental Cleaning

Deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that is used to remove plaque and tartar buildup on teeth and below the gumline. It is a type of periodontal or gum therapy that is used to treat gum disease and is typically recommended by a dentist or dental hygienist.

What Happens During a Deep Dental Cleaning?

During a deep dental cleaning, the dentist will start by numbing the gums with a local anesthetic. This helps to reduce any discomfort during the procedure. Next, they will use specialized instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This is done to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and help to reduce inflammation. The dentist may also use an ultrasonic scaling device to help remove any stubborn plaque and tartar.

Once all of the plaque and tartar have been removed, the dentist will smooth out any rough or jagged areas on the tooth’s root surface. This helps to reduce the chances of bacteria sticking to the teeth and causing further damage. The dentist may also apply a special medication to the gums to help reduce inflammation.

Signs That You Need a Deep Dental Cleaning

Deep cleanings are more extensive than regular cleanings and are used to treat serious gum disease. There are several signs that indicate you may need a deep dental cleaning, so it’s important to be aware of them.

1. Bad Breath

One of the most common signs that you need a deep dental cleaning is bad breath. Bad breath can be caused by a number of factors, but one of the most common is the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. A deep dental cleaning can help to remove this buildup and restore your breath.

2. Tooth Sensitivity

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, it could be a sign that you need a deep dental cleaning. If plaque and bacteria are left on the teeth, it can cause the enamel to become worn down, leading to sensitivity. A deep dental cleaning can help to remove the plaque and bacteria and help to reduce sensitivity.

3. Discolored Teeth

Plaque and bacteria can also cause your teeth to become discolored. If you notice that your teeth are starting to turn yellow or brown, this could be a sign that you need a deep dental cleaning. A deep dental cleaning can help to remove the plaque and bacteria and restore the natural color of your teeth.

4. Receding Gums

Plaque and bacteria can also cause your gums to recede, which can lead to gum disease. If you notice that your gums are starting to recede, it’s important to get a deep dental cleaning to help prevent further damage.

5. Bleeding Gums

If your gums are constantly bleeding, this is a sign of gingivitis, a form of gum disease. Without treatment, this can lead to more serious issues like receding gums, tooth loss, and even bone and joint pain

6. Recurring Cavities

If you have multiple cavities that keep reappearing, it could be a sign that you need a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This can help prevent cavities from forming and can also help to keep existing cavities from worsening.

Conclusion

A deep dental cleaning is a type of teeth cleaning that is done below the gum line. This type of cleaning is often recommended for people who have gum disease. A deep dental cleaning can help to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, and it can also help to reduce the inflammation of the gums.

Looking for a dentist in Lexington? We at Lexington Smile Studio provide a full range of exceptional dental services for everyone. Whether you are seeking general, cosmetic, preventive or restorative dentistry, you can book an appointment with us at Lexington Smile Studio.

Exposing the Ultimate List of Common Lip Tie Myths: Debunked!

When it comes to lip ties and the health of an infant, many myths and misconceptions are floating around. From breastfeeding troubles to difficulty latching, many people assume that a baby’s lip tie is the cause of their health issues. But this is not always the case. In this article, we’ll be debunking some of the most common lip tie myths and providing helpful information about this common issue.

Lip ties are a congenital condition in which the thin membrane connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight, restricting the movement of the upper lip. This can cause a variety of issues, such as difficulty latching on to the breast or bottle, and discomfort during feeding. It can also lead to dental problems and speech impediments.

While lip ties can cause a variety of issues, it is important to remember that not all lip ties require treatment. Some babies have a lip tie that is so minor, that it does not cause any issues and can be left alone. Other babies may have a more severe lip tie that needs to be treated by a doctor.

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding lip ties, and it is important to be aware of the facts. Below, we will be debunking some of the most common lip tie myths.

Myth 1 – The Lip Ties Will Go Away on Their Own Without Treatment

This is not true. While some lip ties may become less severe over time, most will not go away without treatment. It is important to have your baby evaluated by a doctor to determine if treatment is necessary. 

Myth 2 – Lip Ties Need to be Cut

This is also not true. In most cases, lip ties can be treated with a laser procedure, which is a much less invasive option than cutting the tie.

Myth 3 – Lip Ties are Rare

Lip ties are actually quite common and can affect up to 10% of babies. It is more common in boys than girls and can vary in severity.

Myth 4 – Lip Ties Only Affect Breastfeeding

While lip ties can affect breastfeeding, they can also cause issues with bottle-feeding, as well as dental and speech problems.

Myth 5 – Any Doctor Can Treat Lip Ties

Only certain specialists are qualified to diagnose and treat lip ties. This includes dentists and oral surgeons, as well as lactation consultants and speech therapists. It is important to seek out a professional who is experienced in treating lip ties for the best results.

Myth 6 – Lip Ties Are Normal

Although some babies may be born with a slight lip tie, it is not a normal condition and can cause issues with feeding, dental, and speech development. If a lip tie is suspected, it is best to seek out a professional to determine if treatment is necessary.

Conclusion

Lip ties are a condition that can cause various symptoms, but the diagnosis and treatment are not as straightforward as many myths suggest. Contrary to popular belief, lip ties are not always related to breastfeeding problems and can even occur without any symptoms. 

Moreover, the severity of the lip tie does not always correlate to the severity of the symptoms. It is important for parents to be informed about the diagnosis and treatment of lip ties and to remember that each case is unique. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to ensure accurate diagnosis and successful treatment of lip ties.

If you need cosmetic dentistry in Lexington, visit Lexington Smile Studio. We are proud to provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry.

The Top 10 Things to Remember for Your First Dental Visit

Nothing can make you feel more anxious than your first dental visit. You may be nervous about what to expect and how it will feel. You might even be worried about what the dentist will find when they examine your teeth. However, keeping these ten tips in mind during your visit will give you a much better overall experience.

1. Be Prepared with the Necessary Information: Complete the necessary forms and paperwork before your dental visit. This includes your medical history, insurance information, and any identification documents. Also, have a list of medications you are currently taking and any medical conditions.
2. Have a List of Questions and Concerns Ready: Make a list of any questions or concerns you may have. This way, you can ensure that all your questions are answered during your appointment.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: When visiting the dentist, it’s important to wear comfortable clothing. This will help you feel more relaxed during your appointment.
4. Bring Your Dental Insurance Card: Make sure to bring your dental insurance card to your appointment. This will help your dentist better understand your coverage and ensure you get the most out of your visit.
5. Arrive Early: It’s important to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment so that you can fill out any necessary paperwork and get situated. This will also allow you time to ask questions before your appointment begins.
6. Let Your Dentist Know If You Are Feeling Nervous: If you are feeling nervous or anxious about your dental visit, it’s important to let your dentist know. Your dentist can help you feel more comfortable by explaining procedures and answering any questions you may have.
7. Don’t Forget to Brush and Floss: Make sure to brush and floss your teeth before your appointment. This is important because it will help your dentist find any issues that need to be addressed and ensure your teeth are clean for an accurate diagnosis.
8. Be Honest with Your Dentist: When talking to your dentist, it’s important, to be honest about your dental health. Tell them if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, if your teeth have shifted or changed in size and shape, or if you have had a filling fall out. It’s also important to report any changes in your gums or mouth that can be signs of gum disease.
9. Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions during your appointment. This will help you better understand your dentist’s diagnosis and treatment recommendations. You can ask them what causes your dental problems, how they plan to fix them, and what treatment options are available.
10. Be Responsible for Your Own Dental Health: Don’t put off visiting the dentist until you have a major problem. It’s important to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings each year so your dentist can identify any issues before they become serious problems.

Conclusion

Taking off your teeth is important, and taking care of your dental health is something that should be done regularly. If you’ve never been to the dentist or have been putting it off for some time, now is the time to find a great dentist in your area and make an appointment.

Consult with the best cosmetic dentist in Lexington to learn about the different procedures that can be done. Lexington Smile Studio is a great place to start. We provide patients with quality care and work hard to ensure every visit is enjoyable.

Knowing the Effectiveness of a LANAP Laser Gum Surgery

The vast majority of clinical trials on LANAP laser gum surgery have yielded a success rate of 87.9 percent or above. It is the only laser periodontal treatment that has been shown to be effective both in histology studies and in human clinical trials. Multiple research points to more rapid natural recovery and long-lasting success. When compared to traditional gum surgery, laser gum treatment causes far less pain and discomfort. You may consider LANAP laser gum therapy for a variety of reasons.

What Happens During a LANAP Procedure?

Surgical procedures performed on the gums in the past are now obsolete. Your periodontist may recommend a laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) to remove unhealthy gum tissue. This eliminates the need for invasive procedures such as cutting away gum tissue with a knife. On the other hand, LANAP is a far less invasive option that allows for quicker recovery.

LANAP’s Proven Efficiency

According to recent studies, less tooth loss occurs in the LANAP procedure than in the standard surgery method. It has also been found to help periodontal patients’ gums regenerate following treatment and enhance the number of new tissue attachments between the gums and the bone.

LANAP’s long-term efficacy in treating gum disease is also encouraging. Patients treated with LANAP have a lower risk of having their periodontal disease return than those treated with more conventional treatments, such as osseous surgery. This is because the laser eliminates the bacteria that cause gum disease and because the enhanced tissue regrowth helps to better protect the bone and roots of teeth from their future occurrences.

Additionally, since LANAP patients recover so quickly and with less discomfort than with conventional gum surgery, they are more likely to stick to the at-home dental care regimens necessary to forestall the return of gum disease.

An Overview of the LANAP Method

Your doctor or healthcare provider will:

• Inquire about the state of your gums to ascertain the extent of care required for each tooth.
• Employ a laser that vaporizes the pathogenic microorganisms causing the ailment.
• Remove tartar, a potential source of disease, using ultrasonic scalers or other devices.
• Reconnect gum tissue to the root using the laser.
• Reduce the size of the tooth service to inhibit tartar buildup (occlusal adjustment) further.

The Time Required for the LANAP Procedure

Depending on how severe the gum disease is, the process might take up to an hour. The number of visits needed to finish the surgery depends on how severe your case of gum disease is.

Once LANAP is Complete, How Long Does It Take to Recover?

After that, the patient will feel minimal pain and can go about their daily activities as usual. Because there are no incisions to close, there is also no need to worry about scarring or permanent discomfort. The average time to recuperate from laser gum surgery is under 24 hours, compared to the standard 2–4 weeks for traditional gum surgery.

The Advantages of LANAP Laser Gum Surgery

• It helps stop the bleeding. Laser surgery has gained widespread acceptance and popularity due to its ability to stem postoperative bleeding.
• Minimally invasive laser gum surgery has a quick recovery time. Soon after surgery, you’ll be able to resume your normal activities.
• Minimal invasion.  One of the best things about laser gum surgery is how little it actually hurts.

Tips for Avoiding Gum Disease

• Brush your teeth twice a day, every day.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash and fluoride toothpaste.
• Don’t smoke, and always eat right.
• If you want to keep your teeth in good shape, you should see a dentist periodically.
• Have strong, healthy gums at all times! If your gums are diseased, your dentist may suggest a laser procedure called LANAP.

Conclusion

Indeed, LANAP laser gum surgery is an effective treatment for those suffering from periodontal disease. The surgery is minimally invasive and can be completed in a single visit to the dentist. The laser targets the infected tissue and removes it without damaging the healthy tissue surrounding it. This makes the surgery much less painful, and recovery time is shorter than traditional gum surgery.

If you are looking to get laser gum surgery in Lexington, MA, look no further than our expertise here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your very first gum treatment session with us.

Dental Care: How to Live with Dentures as a Young Person

Tooth loss affects people of all ages, including young people. This condition can significantly impact your quality of life, such as your ability to speak and chew properly and make you look older. It also negatively affects your psychological well-being, where you may feel self-conscious about your appearance. 

Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry solutions like dentures can help replace missing teeth and rebuild your smile and confidence, even if you lost your pearly whites at a young age. 

This article will enumerate the two types of removable dentures, who qualify for this treatment, and which best suits your needs. We’ll also discuss how your dentist will fit the dentures and how to live with them as a young person.

What Are the Types of Removable Dentures?

This section will enumerate the two types of removable dentures. 

1. Partial Dentures 

This dental appliance can replace several missing teeth. It has a set of replacement teeth attached to a plastic base that looks like gums and may also have a metal frame that connects with the existing teeth. Your dentist will adjust the denture to fit your mouth to replace the missing teeth.

2. Full Dentures

On the other hand, your dentist will craft full dentures to fit your mouth. They resemble natural teeth and can help restore your smile. Your dental healthcare provider will create this prosthetic set of teeth from plastic and mold it to your gums for a comfortable yet secure fit. They can replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw or both.

Who Can Qualify for Dentures?

Young people could get dentures if they lose their teeth from untreated gum disease, tooth decay, ectodermal dysplasia, and gastrointestinal reflux. 

Which Dentures Work for Me? 

You can determine which dentures best suit your needs by consulting your dentist. They’ll examine your teeth and jaw to identify the gap’s size and location and if there are any surrounding teeth. That way, they can advise you on the most suitable type of denture for your situation. 

How to Get Your Dentures Fitted

Your dentist can give you a temporary set of dentures while waiting for your permanent ones so you can maintain your smile and still enjoy eating your favorite foods. The temporary dentures can help your gums heal faster because they’ll fit snugly in your mouth. That way, you don’t need to worry about walking around toothless while you wait. 

Once your mouth fully heals and you’re ready to get dentures, your dental healthcare provider will call you for a second appointment to have them fitted. You should wait for an hour and thirty minutes after the placement of the dentures before eating or drinking anything. You should also avoid using straws for the first three days. 

How to Live with Dentures

While it may be awkward to speak and eat with dentures for the first time, remember that it’s normal, and things will get better once you’ve adjusted to your dentures. 

You can begin your new life with dentures by practicing your speech alone or with a trusted friend. This step can help you gain confidence when speaking with dentures, improve your communication skills, and let your mouth muscles adjust to the prosthetic teeth. 

Next, you should cut your food into small pieces. Gradually increase the size of your bites as you get used to chewing and biting with false teeth. Moreover, you should avoid eating sticky, hard, or chewy foods because they can be challenging to eat and can damage your prosthetic teeth. 

Conclusion

Tooth loss can negatively affect your self-esteem and quality of life, especially if you’ve lost them at a young age. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry solutions like dentures can help restore your best smile. 

Lexington Smile Studio offers reliable cosmetic dentistry in Lexington to help our young patients smile better. We set the standard for exceptional dental care. Book an appointment with us today!

What Are the Top 7 Benefits of Having a Laser Gum Surgery?

Laser gum surgery is an advanced form of dental surgery that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can help to improve the health of your gums, as well as the overall appearance of your smile. In this blog, we’ll explore the top seven benefits of having laser gum surgery.

What Is a Laser Gum Surgery and How It Works

Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive dental procedure used to treat periodontal (gum) disease. It is a relatively new technique that uses lasers to precisely remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums. The procedure is much less invasive than traditional gum surgery, and can be done in a single visit with minimal discomfort and a quicker recovery time. Laser gum surgery is generally safe and effective in treating periodontal disease, and can help to prevent further damage and tooth loss.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that causes damage to the gums and bones that support the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Traditional gum surgery involves cutting away the diseased tissue and cleaning out the pockets between the teeth and gums. This can be a painful and invasive procedure, and often requires multiple visits for treatment.

Laser gum surgery is a more advanced, less invasive alternative. During the procedure, a dentist uses a laser to remove the diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums. The laser also seals the pockets between the teeth and gums, making it difficult for bacteria to re-enter. This helps to reduce the risk of infection and encourages healthy tissue growth.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Gum Surgery

Laser gum surgery is a relatively new procedure that has revolutionized the way dentists treat gum disease. Here are some of the top 7 benefits of laser gum surgery.

1. Faster Recovery Time: Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that requires fewer incisions than traditional gum surgery. This means that the recovery time is significantly shorter. Patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days, compared to the weeks or months of recovery time that is typically associated with traditional gum surgery.

2. Reduced Bleeding: Bleeding is a common side effect of traditional gum surgeries. Laser gum surgery, however, uses a laser to cauterize the gum tissue, which helps to reduce the amount of bleeding that occurs.

3. Improved Oral Health: Laser gum surgery can help to improve the overall health of your gums by removing plaque and tartar buildup. This can help to reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

4. Improved Accuracy: Laser gum surgery can be used to target specific areas of the gum that are affected by gum disease. This improved accuracy allows for a more precise treatment with fewer side effects.

5. Less Discomfort: Laser gum surgery is less painful than traditional gum surgery, which can cause discomfort due to the cutting and stitching. The laser also seals the incisions, which can reduce the amount of discomfort that patients experience.

6. Reduced Risk of Infection: Laser gum surgery is associated with a lower risk of infection due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure. The laser seals the incisions, which can help to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

7. Improved Aesthetic Results: Laser gum surgery can be used to reshape the gum line and reduce the appearance of gummy smiles. This can improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the teeth and gums.

Conclusion

Laser gum surgery offers numerous benefits. From reduced healing time to improved oral hygiene, the advantages are too numerous to ignore. Whether you’re looking for a quick and effective way to treat your gum disease or just want to look your best, laser gum surgery is the answer. So if you’re looking for an easy and effective way to improve your oral health, why not give Laser Gum Surgery a try? You’ll be smiling with confidence in no time!

Are you looking for laser gum surgery near you? Then look no further than Lexington Smile Studio. Our experienced and highly trained team of dental professionals are dedicated to providing you with the best care possible. We specialize in a variety of laser gum surgery procedures, from crown lengthening and gum contouring to gingival flap surgery and more. We understand that gum surgery can be a stressful experience. That’s why we strive to make our patients feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. We start by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of your mouth and gums, followed by a detailed plan of action tailored to your individual needs. Let us help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile! Contact us today to schedule your consultation.