Have you noticed issues with the mobility of your tongue due to a tongue-tie? Does your child have problems latching on while breastfeeding? Various complications can come about from having a tongue-tie, many of which can be avoided with minor surgical treatment. But are there any downsides to removing or clipping the frenulum? Keep reading to learn the potential disadvantages of tongue-tie surgery and why you should still visit your doctor for help with this issue.
What is a Frenectomy?
Also referred to as a frenotomy, a frenectomy is a procedure designed to remove or “clip” the frenulum, i.e. a tongue-tie. This treatment can be performed for both children and adults alike, but it can often take longer to do for the latter due to the differences in size. In many cases, this procedure is reserved for those who begin to struggle with problems related to the movement of their tongue and the ability to do normal oral tasks, such as speech, swallowing, and even oral pain or discomfort. Infants with a frenulum can also have issues with feeding from a bottle or consuming water and/or soft foods.
What Are the Negatives of Cutting a Tongue-Tie?
While a frenectomy is meant to alleviate problems with a tongue-tie as well as improve the mobility of the tongue, it can also come with certain drawbacks that can potentially affect your oral habits and health following the surgery. Some of the biggest complications that can arise after the procedure include bleeding and/or infection, damage to the salivary glands or tongue, possible scarring, or a chance for the frenulum to reattach to the bottom of the tongue. These can also be accompanied by issues like trouble speaking, swallowing, and discomfort.
The good news is that these downsides are typically rare, as your tongue-tie doctor will take every precaution necessary to ensure a more comfortable and seamless procedure. Most oral treatments will also involve an adjustment period along with recovery time. Once you or your child have undergone the procedure, your doctor will provide the proper aftercare guidelines so that you know how to minimize problems and discomfort while growing accustomed to not having a tongue-tie.
Why You Should Visit a Tongue-Tie Expert
For the most part, a frenectomy is highly successful and typically straightforward, especially if performed by a specialist. By undergoing this treatment, you can expect a simple process as well as a mere 12-hour recovery period. Not only is the treatment effective, but it’s also a cost-effective method for promoting better tongue movement and oral development.
The benefits of tongue-tie treatment far outweigh the rare chance of experiencing complications after the surgery. Speak with your doctor about the procedure, and they’ll be more than happy to walk you through the process and how they can help ensure a smooth recovery!
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok is a dentist as well as a mother who understands the concerns and frustrations that typically come with lip and/or tongue-tie. For this reason, she’s undergone extensive training through Dr. Baxter’s Tongue-Tie Academy so that she can specialize in providing frenectomies to help patients achieve healthier smiles as well as better quality of life. If you wish to know more about this procedure or want to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call her at 216-292-3600.