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!

Dental Laser Technology to Cure Gum Disease – A Guide

Gum disease is a serious health issue that is common among adults, especially those over 30 years old. When this disease is not dealt with right away, the damages it brings to the teeth may be irreversible.

Because of the weight that comes with this health concern, dental professionals have been looking for the most effective treatments for this illness. At present, the leading gum treatment uses dental laser technology.

Learn more about laser gum treatments when you keep reading.

What Does Gum Disease Do to Oral Health?

Gum disease is known by many other names such as periodontal disease, gingivitis, and dental plaque. This illness affects the gums; it starts with the gums inflamed and swollen, and this condition leads them to be pulled away from the teeth.

It also leads to tooth loss later on. This happens because the gums and the bone supporting the teeth begin to shrink, which causes the teeth to become loose and fall out.

This condition could lead to oral health complications such as bone loss, tooth loss, infection, and even heart disease and strokes. The worst thing about the disease is that it can come back even after it has been treated.

Why Is It Important to Treat Gum Disease?

Gum disease can lead to serious health complications. Leaving the disease untreated would only make it worse. If the disease is not treated right away, more teeth might be lost.

Moreover, gum disease can also cause serious infections that lead to abscesses and bone loss. A tooth that has been affected by gum disease begins to rot, and people with the disease have a higher risk of developing tooth decay.

How Does Dental Laser Technology Work as Gum Disease Treatment?

Dental laser technology is frequently used as a treatment for gum disease. In doing so, the laser treats the bacteria that cause inflammation. The laser also encourages natural healing of the gums.  Aside from that, the laser can also remove the infected tissues, especially those that are deeply embedded in the 

What Are the Benefits of Dental Laser Technology for Gum Disease?

Customizable to Patient’s Needs

Dental lasers are customizable to the needs of each patient. They can be adjusted to extend to various lengths and widths to accommodate the needs of patients’ particular mouths and the gravity of their gum disease.

Enhanced Patient Comfort

A dental laser can easily and effectively remove the infected tissues and thereby, speed up the healing process of the gums. Because the laser has the ability to remove the infected areas quickly, the patient feels less pain.

Lowered Risk of Infection

Dental lasers are less invasive in treating gum disease. The procedure does not require patients to go under anesthesia, and it does not even require stitches. Patients will not experience any bleeding afterward, and it also lessens the chances of getting an infection.

Quicker Recovery Time

The laser treats gum disease by eliminating the bacteria that causes it. It also encourages the gums to heal naturally on their own. With this, the healing process will be completed in no time.

Final Thoughts

Dental laser technology is a highly recommended treatment for gum disease. It is safe, effective, and fast. This technology treats gum disease better than the traditional treatment methods, so it is definitely worth the try.

For laser gum surgery in Lexington, MA, don’t hesitate to give a call to Lexington Smile Studio. Our team offers LANAP and LANIP laser gum treatment to reduce gum disease, promote healthy gum tissue, and preserve teeth or dental implants. Book an exam and consultation today to identify the next step for your oral health.

How Often Do I Need to Get My Teeth Cleaned by a Dentist?

When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned? If you had to think hard to remember, then that is probably not a good sign. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly is important because it promotes better oral health and has a lot of benefits. But how often exactly is “regularly”?

How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?

As a general rule, you should have your teeth cleaned at least every six months in order to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. However, if you have any teeth that are sensitive, have visible cavities, or have gum disease, you may need more frequent cleaning.

Why Get Your Teeth Cleaned So Often?

Regular teeth cleaning helps prevent cavities from forming. A lot of the foods we eat contain sugars that give bacteria in our mouths lots of food to feed on. The bacteria produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel, causing cavities that can lead to teeth that are sensitive or even lost.

Proper cleaning also helps prevent gum disease. Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that is characterized by red and swollen gums. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss. During a teeth cleaning, your dentist will clean the plaque and tartar buildup away from your teeth. They may also take x-rays of your teeth to look for cavities or signs of gum disease.

Does It Hurt to Get My Teeth Cleaned?

Some people may find it uncomfortable during their first teeth cleaning. However, your dentist will do what they can to make sure it doesn’t hurt. Your dentist will speak to you about their cleaning methods and the different instruments that may be used to clean your teeth.

If you have never had your teeth cleaned before, you may be worried about how bad it might be. It is important to remember that your dentist will do what they can to make sure it isn’t painful. They will also give you sedation if you need it. If you have questions about what to expect during your first cleaning, talk with your dentist about it.

How Long Does a Teeth Cleaning Take?

Most teeth cleanings take about an hour. Your dentist will clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar that is on them. They may also take x-rays of your teeth to look for cavities or signs of gum disease.

After the cleaning is done, you may be given a small amount of a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then the dentist will polish your teeth to remove any stains and make your teeth look their best.

However, if your teeth are in a bad state, they may end up taking longer. So how long it takes really is a case-by-case basis, depending on how well you take care of your teeth in between these cleanings and whether there are a lot of buildups to be removed.

Conclusion

Regular teeth cleanings are one of the best daily habits you can have that promote better oral health. They help prevent cavities and gum disease and keep your teeth looking great. Most people need their teeth cleaned every six months. But if you have any other teeth problems, you should schedule cleanings more often. To sum it up, you should get your teeth cleaned regularly to help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Do you need a dentist in Lexington? You can visit us at Lexington Smile Studio. We set the standards for exceptional dental care for our patients, ensuring they are well-taken care of regardless of the service they require. Book an appointment with us today.

Why Do Dentists Ask for a Dental X-Ray: Is It Necessary?

Dentists can examine your mouth to detect possible issues, but even with their specialized tools, there’s only so much they can see. Dental issues can remain hidden underneath, so they need to look deeper. For this reason, they need the help of x-rays.

What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental x-rays are a type of radiography which produce images of the dental structures and their internal soft tissues. They reveal problems that your dentist cannot see with the naked eye. These might include:

• Cavities
• Fractures
• Abscesses

Called “radiographs” in dental parlance, these images will reveal the condition of your teeth, tissues, bones, and the development of the jaw.

Dental X-Rays Can Save Your Life

Dental x-rays help the dentist diagnose a lot of dental problems. They are also useful for looking for hidden dental problems and structures. 

Dental x-rays are simple and painless—they’re akin to taking pictures of your mouth, although x-rays use a different wavelength of light. The images allow your dentist to track the progress of a dental problem, such as a cavity, and determine if the treatment works.

This type of radiography is also a good way of showing a dentist the progress of a dental illness, such as cancer. The x-ray images can also be used to monitor the healing process of gum disease.

What to Expect

Your dentist will ask you to prepare for your dental x-ray by eating or brushing your teeth one hour before going to the dentist. As a general rule, you should not eat or drink anything that contains particles or can stain your teeth. Water and plain black coffee or tea will be alright.

Your dentist will then take a series of dental x-rays of your mouth. Most people can sit still during the procedure. Some may need some medicine for the discomfort caused by the x-rays.

Your dentist will typically take at least two dental x-rays: a top x-ray and a lateral x-ray or bitewing x-ray. The x-rays will be taken from different angles to ensure that all of the dental structures are seen and identified.

The dentist will ask you to bite down on a plate with your teeth. The plate will be placed in the center of the film and the x-ray will be taken at the same angle each time.

How Long Is the Process?

The whole process of taking dental x-rays will take a maximum of three minutes. Most patients don’t even notice the time it took the dentist to take the images.

After taking the dental x-rays, the dentist will usually view them immediately. If a dental problem is noted, it will be checked and treated. Most dental x-ray examinations take less than 15 minutes.

The dentist will then instruct you on a regular follow-up schedule for your x-rays. It will help your dentist to track the progress of any dental disease.

Conclusion

A dental x-ray is an essential procedure in diagnosing and treating dental problems. It is painless, non-invasive, and harmless. The dentist will explain the purpose of a dental x-ray and how it is done. If it is your first time, it is best to ask what to expect before the procedure.

If you need a comprehensive dental examination or x-ray from a Lexington dentist, visit us at Lexington Smile Studio. We are an award-winning dental clinic committed to providing the highest quality dental care. Book an appointment with us by calling at (781) 861-7645.

5 Reasons You May Need A Dental Crown Procedure

Of all the common restorative procedures done on patients, dental crowns are among the most common. Why? This is often because many people run into teeth-related issues that require the replacement of a crown. This can be a result of an impact accident, tooth decay, and the like.

That said, if you’re wondering whether you need to have a dental crown done, here are some uses for it:

For Chipped Tooth

One of the most common causes of a crown is a chipped tooth. A chipped tooth can be caused by a variety of things, like accidentally biting into something hard or getting into an accident that chipped the tooth.

Regardless, the crown is usually placed over a tooth that has lost a large portion of its enamel, exposing the dense core of the tooth. The good thing about these crowns is that they look just like the tooth next to them.

For Replacing Missing Tooth

Another common use for a crown is in the replacement of a missing tooth. While the tooth is missing, the crown will be placed over it to maintain the natural look of the mouth.

Like chipped teeth, the crowns for missing teeth will also look like the tooth next to it, with the same color and shape. Plus, it’ll also feel like it.

For Preventing Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of tooth decay is the presence of plaque. Plaque is the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which will eventually cause tooth decay. This is a common cause of the deterioration of teeth.

Because of this, a dental crown is used to prevent tooth decay. By covering the surface of the teeth, the crown prevents plaque from accumulating on it.

For Filling Gaps and Fusing Teeth

Sometimes, a gap in your teeth will catch sugar and food when you eat and create plaque. This can cause tooth decay and gum disease. This can be prevented by filling the gaps with a crown.

This is also done to prevent teeth from moving. When one is missing, the tooth next to it will often shift out of place, which can cause it to become unsightly. By placing a crown over it, the teeth will be fused together.

For Straightening Short Teeth

Another common use for a dental crown is to straighten short teeth. This is done when a patient has crooked teeth, which can be an aesthetic issue. 

To correct a crooked tooth, a crown may be attached over the teeth. This will stabilize the teeth, giving them a more natural position and preventing them from moving.

Conclusion

Life can throw anything at you, and one of the things is something that can occur to your teeth that may leave you needing a crown placed on your teeth. That being said, as you can see, there are many uses for a crown, and if you’re wondering if you need a crown, feel free to reach out to your dentist. They can check and see what’s going on with your teeth and suggest a dental crown procedure or any other procedure you’ll need to enjoy better oral health!

Lexington Smile Studio offers a variety of dental services that set the standards of exceptional care. If you are looking for dental crowns in Lexington, get in touch with us today!

The Perfect Smile What You Need to Know about Veneers

Porcelain is highly sought after. People prefer them over vinyl when renovating because they last longer and do not lose their appeal over time. Porcelain dolls are a prized collection because of their rarity.

Porcelain can be a lifesaver for those who endure years of taunting by damaged teeth. Porcelain in the form of a veneer can hide teeth imperfections such as chipped teeth. Seasoned cosmetic dentists will tell you that the best veneers are the ones that blend well with the rest of your teeth.

Veneers are a dental miracle, but they are not the answer to everything. Before searching for the best veneers in Boston, it would be prudent to know more about them. 

What Are Veneers?

Traditional veneers are made of porcelain bonded over a tooth’s surface. It covers the front of a tooth, so its color and shape are the only things people see when they look at you. Veneers are used to cover teeth stains, cover a gap between teeth, or improve the shape and size of a tooth.

Veneers are usually made of porcelain because it is strong and looks suitable for a long time. However, metal and composite veneers are also available. Many argue that porcelain makes the best veneers because they are indistinguishable from natural teeth.

How Do They Work?

If you suffer from a damaged tooth, a veneer may or may not help with your cause. However, this dental device is needed if you have stained teeth. Porcelain veneers are affixed to the front of the teeth to hide their natural color and shape.   

Let us take crooked teeth as an example. If you have one, a cosmetic dentist will offer veneer as a solution because it rectifies the problem immediately. What is great about this is that you do not have to undergo the pain of having braces. 

However, your dentist will only offer this option if your tooth problem does not pose a severe risk to your health. For the veneer to look good and appear natural, a mold of the tooth will be made. A dental lab will then analyze the mold to ensure that it can accommodate the veneer. 

What Are the Benefits?

Who does not want beautiful teeth? If you have stained or damaged teeth, a veneer can help. If you have gaps between your teeth, veneers can cover them. This dental device gives you a great smile. 

A veneer can also help you improve the size of your teeth if they are too small for your liking. Your dentist will suggest getting a veneer if you have teeth that are misshapen or uneven.

Veneers can give you a smile you have always wanted. You will also feel confident when you talk to people because you no longer have to hide your teeth.

Conclusion

Veneers are a dental miracle. You can get this device as a solution to your damaged or stained teeth. However, you should not expect it to solve every problem with your teeth. Porcelain veneers are helpful, but they should not be used to replace regular dental check-ups. 

If you want to get the best veneers in Boston, you should get them from Lexington Smile Studio. We take great pride that we have been restoring smiles since 1991, so allow us to do it for you. Book an appointment now!

Adverse Effects of Living with an Untreated Tongue-Tie

The tongue’s range of motion is controlled or limited by a thin band of tissue called a frenulum, most commonly found under or around the lips or the tongue. Those with an excessively short or tight frenulum, often known as a tongue- or lip-tie, have a frenulum that restricts the tongue’s movement.

Moving your tongue freely is hampered if you or your kid suffer from a tongue tie. This limitation can substantially impact speech, eating, respiration, sleep, and so many other aspects of life over time. This article will educate you about the probable dangers of living with an untreated tongue-tie and the steps you may take to avoid them.

Tongue-Tie Issues at Birth

A tongue-tie in an infant might cause difficulty in breastfeeding. Failure to thrive, colic, impaired maternal-infant bonding, or early termination of nursing are just a few of the issues experienced by new mothers. 

If their infant has a tongue-tie, the mother may have problems of her own, such as discomfort when nursing, nipple injury, or even psychological issues such as despair or an overwhelming sense of failure. 

The root of the problem will not be solved by discontinuing nursing. A child’s tongue-tie may worsen as they grow older if it is not addressed. It is best to seek a tongue tie dentist near you for help.

Tongue-Tie Issues in Children

It may begin as early as infancy when a child has difficulty eating solid meals. It is usual for a toddler with a tongue tie to experience worsening digestion or feeding problems as they grow older. 

Tightness in the child’s tongue or irregular jaw growth can produce a narrowing of the upper palate, increasing the risk of sleep apnea and other breathing problems. 

Speech difficulties can affect confidence and self-esteem, particularly in school or when making new friends. As a result, the body has begun to adjust to the limitations in range of motion by forming unconscious, unfavorable habits that represent a more significant obstacle to oral health and function.

Tongue-Tie Issues in Adulthood

People with a tongue-tie usually develop unhelpful habits by the time they reach adulthood. An adult with tongue-tie may experience malnutrition due to their inability to chew and swallow their meals properly. 

As a result of the restricted movement of the tongue, they may suffer from speech impairment or sleep apnea. To make matters worse, those who have grown up with a tongue tie are more likely to suffer from a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), which can cause chronic discomfort in the jaws and headaches when the jaws open or close.

Treatments for Tongue-Tie

Others believe that tongue-ties aren’t a huge concern and will go away as you get older. That is not the case, unfortunately. An individual with a tongue tie must have it released to have a complete range of motion in their tongue, regardless of their age or youth. 

This operation, known as a functional frenuloplasty, uses a laser to free up the tissue. A set of exercises known as myofunctional therapy might be prescribed by your tongue tie dentist 

after the tongue tie is loosened to repair any bad habits that were formed as compensation for the reduced range of motion.

Conclusion

Nobody should have to live their entire lives feeling limited by the lack of mobility in their tongue. Fortunately, there is a way to prevent those issues. Some people may feel embarrassed by the need for a tongue-tie release, but as a parent, you should never feel ashamed of asking for help to provide a better life for your children.

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