6 Signs of a Healed Frenectomy

After a frenectomy, many parents wonder how to know when their baby’s healing process is complete. Recognizing the signs of a fully healed frenectomy can help reassure you and confirm that the procedure was successful. Here are six key signs to look out for as your baby recovers so that you can feel confident in their journey to better oral health.

1. Reduced Swelling and Redness

After a frenectomy procedure, reduced swelling and redness are positive signs that healing is progressing well. In the first few days after the procedure, it’s normal for the area to appear red and slightly swollen. As healing continues, the swelling will gradually subside, and the redness will fade, indicating that the tissue is recovering. By the end of the first week, you should see noticeable improvement, with the surgical area looking calmer and more natural. These changes ensure that your baby’s mouth is healing smoothly and moving toward full recovery.

2. Absence of White Healing Patch

As your baby heals after a frenectomy, you may notice a white or yellowish patch at the site, which is part of the natural healing process. This diamond-shaped patch typically forms within the first few days and acts as a protective layer over the tissue. It may persist for 2-3 weeks as the underlying tissue regenerates. The gradual shrinking and eventual disappearance of this patch indicate that healing is nearly complete.

3. Improved Feeding and Comfort

As your baby heals from a frenectomy surgery, one positive sign to look for is improved feeding and overall comfort. If your baby previously had difficulty latching, swallowing, or seemed uncomfortable during feedings, these issues should gradually decrease as healing progresses. Improved feeding behavior, such as easier latching and reduced fussiness during meals, indicates that your baby is adjusting well to the changes. This newfound comfort is a sign that the frenectomy is providing the intended benefits, helping them feed more effectively and without discomfort.

4. Increased Mobility of Tongue or Lip

Increased mobility of the tongue or lip is a positive sign of a healed frenectomy. After the procedure, you should gradually notice that your baby’s tongue or lip can move more freely, making oral functions like sucking, latching, and eating much easier. This improved range of motion is essential for feeding and oral development. Over time, as healing progresses, you’ll see your baby adapt to this new flexibility, showing fewer signs of discomfort and gaining more confidence with these movements.

5. No Signs of Reattachment

This is a key indicator that the frenectomy site is healing properly. Reattachment happens when the tissue begins to grow back in a restrictive way, potentially limiting the mobility gained from the procedure. To ensure reattachment doesn’t occur, gentle stretching exercises are recommended during recovery. Over time, you should notice that the treated area remains flexible without any restrictions returning. If your baby’s tongue or lip seems restricted again, it’s a good idea to consult with your pediatric dentist immediately.

6. Lack of Sensitivity or Pain

Gradual reduction of discomfort is a positive sign that your baby’s frenectomy site is healing well. Initially, mild discomfort is common as the area adjusts, but as healing progresses, you should notice that your baby appears more comfortable, with reduced fussiness during feedings and other activities. When the surgical site is fully healed, your baby should be able to eat, suck, and explore with their tongue or lip without signs of pain or irritation. This comfort is a reassuring sign that the healing process is nearly complete.

How Long Does a Frenectomy Take To Heal?

The healing time for a frenectomy can vary depending on the technique used. A laser frenectomy generally has a quicker recovery time, with initial discomfort lasting 24-48 hours and complete healing within 3-4 weeks. The laser technique minimizes tissue damage, leading to faster healing and less painful recovery.  In contrast, a traditional frenectomy often involves a longer recovery period, with immediate discomfort lasting 3-7 days and total healing taking about 4-6 weeks. In both cases, some soreness and mild swelling are normal initially, gradually improving as healing progresses.

Does Frenectomy Alter the Shape of the Face?

A frenectomy can influence facial development, especially when tongue ties or lip ties affect oral function. Proper tongue movement supports normal oral habits and contributes to balanced facial development. When a tongue or lip tie limits mobility, it can sometimes lead to habits like mouth breathing or tongue thrusting, which may influence facial aesthetics over time. By releasing the frenulum, a frenectomy allows the mouth and jaw to function as they should, potentially supporting a more balanced and symmetrical facial structure as your child grows. This procedure can also improve dental development, leading to healthier growth patterns and a more natural alignment of the teeth and lips.

There is a general consensus among dental professionals that addressing tongue ties and lip ties through surgical procedures can have positive effects on both oral function and facial aesthetics, particularly if performed early in life.

Can a Frenulum Reattach?

Yes, a frenulum can reattach after a frenectomy. According to the Association of Tongue Tie Practitioners (ATTP), the reattachment rate is around 4%. This figure indicates that while reattachment can occur, it’s relatively uncommon.

Here are some factors that contribute to reattachment:

• Incomplete Procedure: If a frenectomy doesn’t fully release the frenulum, reattachment can occur because some restricted tissue remains. During a frenectomy, it’s essential to release both the visible part of the frenulum and any deeper fibers that may still be causing restriction. When only part of the frenulum is addressed, the remaining fibers can reconnect as they heal, leading to reattachment. To prevent this, we perform a thorough examination of the frenulum during the procedure to ensure all restricted tissue is released.
• Scar Tissue Formation: During the healing process, scar tissue may develop at the surgical site. While some scarring is natural, excessive scar tissue can restrict movement, potentially leading to frenulum reattachment. To minimize this risk, it’s important to follow aftercare instructions.
• Inconsistent Post-Operative Care: Consistent post-operative care, including stretching exercises, is essential to prevent reattachment after a frenectomy. If stretches are not done as recommended or are performed incorrectly, the healing tissue can begin to reattach, reducing mobility again. Proper technique and regular timing are important for these exercises to be effective. Gentle but firm stretching helps maintain flexibility, while improper or inconsistent care increases the risk of the frenulum reattaching.
• Muscle Tension: Babies may instinctively bite down and resist during stretches or oral exercises, especially if they feel discomfort. Gentle and consistent guidance during these exercises can help avoid unnecessary pressure on the healing tissue. Encouraging a calm atmosphere and working with your child’s natural rhythm during the aftercare process can improve cooperation and reduce the likelihood of muscle tensions that might hinder proper healing.

Regular, gentle stretches keep the frenulum from reattaching and ensure that the benefits of the frenectomy last.

What Not to Do After an Infant Frenectomy

After an infant frenectomy, whether done with laser or traditional methods, it’s essential to follow specific care instructions for smooth healing and to avoid complications. Here are some things to avoid during recovery:

• Skipping Stretching Exercises: Skipping the recommended stretching exercises after an infant frenectomy can increase the risk of the frenulum reattaching, which may lead to the need for another oral surgery. These stretches help keep the tissue mobile as it heals and prevent scar tissue from restricting movement. To get the best results, complete the exercises as recommended, use the correct methods, and, most importantly, stay calm and relaxed during the exercises to make it a more comfortable experience for your little one.
• Avoiding Pain Management: Don’t skip pain management, especially in the first few days when your baby may feel sore. Consistent pain relief measures, such as infant-safe medication (like acetaminophen), can help ease discomfort and keep your baby calm and comfortable. Applying gentle, topical numbing solutions (if recommended), along with comfort techniques like skin-to-skin contact and soft music, can further soothe your baby. Effective pain management supports better feeding and a smoother recovery process.
• Using Hard or Sharp Objects for Relief: Avoid giving your baby any hard or sharp objects to chew on after a frenectomy, as this can irritate the sensitive area and potentially delay healing. Instead, stick to soft, approved teething toys that are gentle on your baby’s mouth. These provide comfort without the risk of injuring the surgical site. Soft teething toys can help soothe the area while your baby adjusts, making the recovery period more comfortable and reducing the chance of complications.
• Neglecting Gentle Oral Hygiene: Gentle oral hygiene after a frenectomy is important to support healing without causing irritation. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or vigorous brushing around the surgical area. Instead, follow our guidance on keeping the site clean. We will recommend a safe, gentle approach, such as using a soft cloth or a mild solution to keep the area free from bacteria. Practicing careful oral hygiene helps prevent infection and promotes a smooth recovery, allowing the tissue to heal naturally and comfortably.
• Feeding Without Comfort Measures: After a frenectomy, feeding can be comforting for babies, but it’s important not to rush the process if they seem fussy or uncomfortable. While breastfeeding or bottle-feeding is generally encouraged, avoid pushing feeding if your baby needs a moment to calm down first. Instead, try using gentle, soothing techniques, like skin-to-skin contact, lots of cuddles, gentle rocking, or a soft lullaby, to help them relax. Once they’re calm, they may be more receptive to feeding, which can also provide comfort during the healing process.
• Excessive Movement or Activity: After a frenectomy, it’s essential to handle your baby gently and avoid excessive movement or activities that could put stress on the healing area. Try to keep your baby calm and avoid any jostling, bouncing, or vigorous play during the early recovery days. This gentle approach will help protect the surgical site and reduce the risk of intense discomfort or complications, giving your baby the best chance for a smooth and comfortable recovery.
• High-Pressure Activities: To support healing, it’s best to limit activities that create strong suction or pressure in your baby’s mouth, like using pacifiers or feeding bottles that require significant sucking effort. These high-pressure activities can place unnecessary strain on the healing area, potentially causing discomfort or delaying the recovery process. Instead, choose feeding methods and soothing techniques that keep pressure to a minimum, allowing the surgical site to heal more comfortably and effectively.
• Ignoring Signs of Infection: To ensure proper healing, it’s essential to watch for signs of infection after your baby’s frenectomy. Keep an eye on the surgical site for unusual symptoms like increased redness, swelling, discharge, or a persistent bad smell. If your baby seems increasingly uncomfortable or develops a fever, these may also indicate an infection. If you notice any signs of infection, contact us immediately.

By following these guidelines and avoiding these actions, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and the best outcome for your baby’s frenectomy.

When to Schedule a Follow-up Visit

A follow-up visit is typically recommended within a couple of weeks after your baby’s frenectomy. This appointment allows us to check the healing progress, ensure there are no signs of reattachment, and address any questions or concerns you may have about aftercare. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as persistent fussiness, signs of infection, or difficulty feeding, don’t hesitate to reach out sooner. Regular follow-up helps support a smooth recovery and ensures your baby is adapting well post-procedure.

At Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to supporting your child’s dental health from the very start. We offer complimentary preventative care visits for new patients aged 24 months and under, giving you the perfect opportunity to address any dental concerns early on. During these visits, our team can assess if a frenectomy is needed, discuss any feeding issues, and provide guidance to help ensure a healthy, happy smile for your little one. Contact us today to schedule a visit and give your child the best start in oral health.