Tongue Release (Frenectomy) in Reading, PA
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Contact UsWhat Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed to release a tongue tie or lip tie. These conditions result when the band of tissue (frenum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lips to the gums is too short or tight. Tongue and lip ties can prevent normal oral function and may affect a person’s ability to speak, eat, and breathe properly. The oral condition may also increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), snoring, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), and other health concerns. At the Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center of Pennsylvania, Dr. Stephen Sulzbach has extensive experience performing frenectomy procedures for patients of all ages. If you or your child may have a tongue or lip tie, please contact our office in Reading, PA to schedule a treatment consultation.
What Are the Benefits of Frenectomy?
Frenectomy surgery offers several benefits. The benefits may vary depending on the age of the patient, but some common benefits our patients experience include:
- Easier to breastfeed infants
- Improved speech
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Eliminate gaps in the teeth
- Reduced discomfort
- Easier to eat
When Is a Frenectomy Needed?
Frenectomies may be recommended for infants, children, teens, or adults affected by lip or tongue ties. These conditions limit the range of motion of the tongue and lips and can cause a number of general and oral health concerns, including:
- Breathing issues
- Snoring
- Breastfeeding difficulties
- Chewing and swallowing
- Gaps between teeth
- Gum recession
- Oral pain or discomfort
In adults, tongue tie (or tethered tongue) contributes to:
- Poor posture
- Neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Jaw joint pain and dysfunction
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Indigestion and acid reflux
- Problems speaking or pronouncing words properly
Tongue tie in children affects the growth and development of the child, which can lead to all of the above in addition to:
- A bad bite
- Underdeveloped or poorly developed facial structure
- Asymmetrical facial features affecting appearance
- Poor sleep
- Lack of energy
- Behavioral problems
While frenectomies are commonly performed in infants, the procedure may be ideal for patients in various stages of life. An examination by Dr. Sulzbach can help determine if the procedure is necessary.
The Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center of Pennsylvania Reviews
Dr. Sulzbach helped me with my sleep apnea and snoring. My wife is so much happier now!
I have had the luck and the pleasure of seeing Dr. Salzbach on several occasions. An extremely knowledgeable and professional, who truly does care about his patients. He takes the time to explain options, procedures to you in a way that you've understand and is very up front. I would highly recommend anytime to anyone.
Dr. Sulzbach and Corrine Lambert were amazing in taking care of my sleep apnea needs. I can’t wait to see how much improvement there is with the new device.
I have sleep apnea and felt awful for years. Just constantly tired. I can't wear the cpap. I tried but I just hate the thing. Dr Steve made a dental appliance and I am sleeping through the night without even snoring for the first time in probably 20 years. He's really laid back but straight to the point.
I have been going to Dr. Steve for years. He is a competent and wonderful dentist. It is a shame what Harrisburg tried to do to him. I guess when they need a scape goat to further their agenda they don't care who they try to hurt in the process. Rest assured he is by far the best dentist I have ever gone to and goes beyond the standard of care!
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How Can a Frenectomy Help Prevent Sleep Apnea?
Tongue ties are often associated with a smaller airway, which is more likely to collapse or become blocked during sleep. It is this collapse of tissue in the back of the mouth and throat area that causes obstructive sleep apnea. A frenectomy releases the short or tight lingual (tongue) frenum, allowing the tongue to be positioned more forward in the mouth. This can help prevent the tongue from falling into the airway when a person sleeps.
How Is a Frenectomy Performed?
Our Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center team strives to ensure patient comfort and care when performing frenectomies. Before beginning the procedure, the area will be gently numbed with a local anesthetic. A soft-tissue laser will be used to release the band of tissue (frenum) causing the tongue or lip tie, allowing for a greater range of motion. The use of a laser for frenectomy procedures minimizes discomfort and treatment time. Sutures may also be applied if necessary to help promote healing. When the procedure is complete, aftercare instructions will be provided by our team.
What Can be Expected After a Frenectomy?
After a frenectomy, we will review the best ways to take care of the treated area. It's very important to keep the area clean and free of infection. We will give you a list of foods to avoid for the next few days, as certain foods can increase the likelihood of infection. Brushing and flossing twice daily are still vitally important during the recovery phase. After about two weeks, the surgical site should be healed.
Learn More About Sleep Apnea and TMJ Center
About UsTreat Lip and Tongue Ties With Expert Care
Addressing lip and tongue ties can minimize the risk of sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and other general and oral health concerns. As an expert in sleep apnea and TMJ therapy, Dr. Sulzbach can help determine if a frenectomy is an ideal treatment option for you or your child. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please contact The Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center of Pennsylvania today. Our practice proudly serves patients throughout the Reading, Ephrata, New Morgan, Leesport, Hamburg, and Kutztown, PA communities.
Frenectomy FAQs
What are the signs that my child needs a frenectomy?
Most cases of tongue-tie are found very early on when a baby is trying to feed. When nursing or bottle-feeding, a baby with a frenectomy may have trouble latching on. Additionally, they may have trouble latching on, or you may notice a clicking noise, lip-smacking, or a dribble of milk. If it is not discovered until older years, you may notice your child has speech issues, difficulty swallowing, or complains of a sore mouth.
What can happen if a tongue-tie is not corrected?
If a baby's short frenum is not addressed, feeding will continue to be difficult for infants, and as the child gets older, they may resist solid food because it's challenging to eat. As the child gets older, you may notice abnormalities in their development. Things like:
- Face may appear elongated and thin
- Lower central incisor teeth may bend inward
- Speech issues (stuttering, lisps, difficulty saying words that have t, d, n, l, s, z, and r)
If braces are needed, should you get them before or after having a frenectomy?
Dr. Sulzbach will work with you to ensure you get the best treatment plan. However, braces are often suggested before a frenectomy surgery is performed since scarring from a frenectomy could prevent the closure of space between the teeth.
How does a tongue-tie exasperate sleep apnea?
When the tongue is "tied" (or restricted(, it cannot reach a high position in the palate, so it adopts a lower position. This can create slight distortions in palate, mid-face, and lower jaw development. This may cause a smaller airway, which is more prone to collapse while asleep.
