Are Stretches Necessary After a Frenectomy?

Lip and tongue-ties are often diagnosed in infants and young children. This condition affects the way that babies and young kits eat and speak. It also interferes with the ability to breastfeed successfully. Fortunately, this condition can be easily corrected with a laser frenectomy. Continue reading to learn more about frenectomies and which exercises and stretches are necessary for a quick, successful recovery.

What Is a Laser Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a procedure that is completed to release the frenum. This is the band of tissue that is beneath the tongue and behind the upper lip. Doing this allows for a better range of motion. A soft-tissue laser is used to release this band of tissue. There is very little discomfort involved, and it can be completed in just a few seconds. There should be very little to no bleeding following the procedure. Because the laser cauterizes and sterilizes the area as it goes, the risk of infection is very low.

Why Are Stretching Exercises Necessary After a Laser Frenectomy?

If stretches aren’t done after the procedure, there is a good chance that it will grow back together. The wound will heal together again, possibly even tighter than it was before. Because wounds tend to contract, your child could end up with an even worse issue if the stretching isn’t completed. This is part of the natural healing process to keep the area from opening again. Stretching essentially “tricks” the area into healing separately, so your child can enjoy a wider range of motion going forward.

Tongue & Lip Stretching Exercises

Begin by washing your hands. Then, complete the following exercises with your child.

• Upper Lip: Place your clean finger beneath your child’s upper lip, placing it at the very tip. Then, move your finger gently from side to side.
• Tongue: Insert your index finger into your child’s mouth under the tongue. Gently, lift their tongue toward the roof of their mouth. Lift it as high as you can and hold it for a couple of seconds before you let it fall back onto your finger. The goal is to prevent the tongue from reattaching to the floor of the mouth. You should also massage both sides of the incision to prevent the stiffening of the tongue muscles. Be super gentle because the site will be tender and sensitive at this time.

Frenectomies can make a huge difference for your baby’s oral mobility if they have been diagnosed with a lip or tongue tie. Completing the stretching exercises above are necessary for permanent results. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s recovery, give their lip and tongue-tie specialist a call for further directions.

About the Author

Dr. Garcia-DeMartino earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. It has been more than 20 years since she underwent training to help those struggling with lip and tongue-ties. Currently, she is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Academy of Women Dentists, Academy of Laser Dentistry, and the Academy of Children’s Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit her website or call (908) 840-8399.