Laser Dentistry
What is a laser dentistry?
Laser dentistry refers to the use of lasers (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) in dental procedures. Lasers offer several advantages in comparison to traditional dental tools and techniques.
Benefits of laser dentistry include:
Reduced Discomfort: Lasers may cause less pain and discomfort compared to traditional dental tools.
Minimized Bleeding and Swelling: Lasers can coagulate blood vessels and minimize bleeding during surgery.
Precision: Lasers allow for more precise tissue removal and can selectively target specific tissues without affecting surrounding areas.
Reduced Need for Anesthesia: In some cases, the use of lasers may reduce the need for anesthesia.
It's important to note that while laser dentistry has many advantages, it may not be suitable for all dental procedures. The choice of using lasers depends on the specific treatment needs and the dentist's expertise.
What is a tongue tie?
A tongue tie refers to a condition where the movement of the tongue is restricted due to a tight membrane called the lingual frenum located underneath the tongue. While all children have some of this tissue, approximately 5-12% of children have a tongue tie that is so tight that it hinders the free movement of their tongues. This condition is medically known as "ankyloglossia," and research indicates that it has a hereditary component.
What is a lip tie?
The labial frenum is the tissue that connects the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth. When this frenum is too large or attached too close to the front teeth, it can contribute to a condition known as a "lip tie." This may restrict the movement of the upper lip and potentially lead to issues such as difficulty breastfeeding in infants, gum recession, or spacing between the front teeth.
How can tongue ties affect my child?
For toddlers and older children, tongue ties can affect various aspects such as speech, feeding, and sleep. Speech problems may include difficulties or delays in speech development, challenges with articulation, particularly with sounds like L, R, T, D, N, TH, SH, and Z. Feeding challenges can manifest as choking, gagging, trouble swallowing certain textures, limited food intake, slow eating, food packing in the cheeks, and pickiness with textures. Soft, mushy foods and meats tend to pose the most difficulty, although other foods may also be challenging. Tethered oral tissues can also cause sleep disturbances due to teeth grinding or sleep-disordered breathing.
What is an operculectomy?
An Operculectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing the excess soft tissue or gum flap that covers the permanent molar. By cutting away this tissue, the procedure aims to prevent the accumulation of debris and plaque, and can get rid of any inflammation and pain your child may feel from erupting permanent molars.
When is a frenectomy recommended?
A dental frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of a frenulum, which is a small fold of tissue that connects one part of the mouth to another. A dental frenectomy is recommended when the presence of a tight or restrictive frenulum causes functional or developmental issues. Some common indications for a frenectomy include:
Breastfeeding Difficulties: Infants with a lip or tongue tie may have difficulty latching onto the breast and may not be able to feed effectively.
Speech Issues: In some cases, a restrictive frenulum can contribute to speech difficulties, particularly in the pronunciation of certain sounds.
Orthodontic Concerns: A tight labial frenulum may contribute to gaps between the front teeth, and a lingual frenulum may affect the alignment of the teeth.
Gum Recession: A tight labial frenulum can contribute to gum recession, especially if it pulls on the gum tissue, causing it to recede away from the teeth.
The decision to recommend a frenectomy is typically made after a thorough examination. The procedure is generally simple and can often be performed with local anesthesia. After a frenectomy, patients will be advised to perform exercises to prevent the tissue from reattaching. The success of the procedure can lead to improved function and reduced symptoms associated with a restrictive frenulum.