6 Ways Frenectomies Benefit Children and Support Healthy Growth

Frenectomies can significantly affect a child’s oral development and overall well-being, especially when certain oral restrictions are present. Dr. Bridget Lervick at Grandview Center for Dentistry in Edina, Minnesota, specializes in assessing when a frenectomy—a simple procedure to release a tight frenum in the mouth—can help improve children’s oral function and comfort. Many parents wonder if a frenectomy will impact their child’s facial structure. While this procedure primarily enhances functional improvements, it can also influence facial development by fostering natural muscle growth and alignment. Here are the top ways frenectomies benefit children.

1. Improves Speech Development

A tight or restrictive frenum, whether under the tongue or upper lip, can impact a child’s ability to pronounce certain sounds, which is essential for speech development. Dr. Lervick explains that a frenectomy can free up the tongue or lips, allowing children to articulate words more clearly and accurately. This can help prevent frustration as children learn to communicate and can positively impact their self-confidence in social interactions.

2. Supports Proper Oral Hygiene

Restricted movement of the lips or tongue can make brushing and flossing difficult, especially for younger children. A restricted tongue, for instance, may not reach all areas of the mouth to clear food particles and bacteria, potentially leading to oral hygiene challenges. Dr. Lervick emphasizes that a frenectomy can help children practice better oral hygiene by enabling full tongue mobility and reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

3. Enhances Feeding Abilities for Infants

A tight frenum under the tongue (commonly called a “tongue tie”) can make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding difficult for infants. Restricted movement may prevent a proper latch, leading to inadequate feeding and frustration for the child and parent. By performing a frenectomy, Dr. Lervick can help infants feed more comfortably and efficiently, which promotes healthier weight gain and overall growth during those critical early months.

4. Prevents Dental Issues and Misalignment

A tight upper lip frenum can sometimes cause a gap between the two front teeth, potentially leading to misalignment or bite issues as a child grows. Dr. Lervick explains that a frenectomy can relieve this tension, giving teeth a chance to grow in closer alignment naturally. This can minimize the need for orthodontic interventions later in life, allowing for a smoother path to a healthy, well-aligned smile.

5. Encourages Healthy Facial Development

Parents often wonder if a frenectomy impacts their child’s facial structure. While the procedure doesn’t directly change face structure, it supports balanced muscle development and proper function, which can contribute to natural facial growth. Dr. Lervick notes that by allowing full movement of the lips and tongue, a frenectomy encourages healthy muscular and bone development, which supports facial symmetry and natural jaw alignment over time.

6. Boosts Confidence and Social Comfort

Many children with restrictive frena may feel self-conscious about their speech or appearance, which can affect their confidence in social settings. By improving speech, feeding, and other functional abilities, Dr. Lervick points out that a frenectomy can help children feel more at ease and confident in expressing themselves, whether participating in class or talking with friends.

Interested in Learning More? Contact Grandview Center for Dentistry Today!

If your child may benefit from a frenectomy, Dr. Lervick at Grandview Center for Dentistry in Edina, MN, is here to help. With careful assessment and guidance, Dr. Lervick can determine the best approach to support your child’s oral health and development. Contact us today at (952) 955-4505 to schedule a consultation and learn how this simple procedure could benefit your child’s well-being and confidence.

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