Discover Why Frenectomies Are Becoming More Common

Believe it or not, frenectomies were not always common practice. While many pediatric dentists today offer these procedures to help correct a lip or tongue tie in Palm Harbor, it was not always that way. Because of research, opinions, and trends throughout history regarding breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, changes have occurred causing women to embrace and later neglect this procedure. Read on to learn why the pendulum is now swinging back toward frenectomies being a normal and popular method of treatment.

Historical Viewpoints of Frenectomies

The 17^th century saw many mothers turning to medical professionals to help correct their child’s lip or tongue tie. The reason for this is that breastfeeding was the normal way to feed a baby during this time. When a tethered oral tissue made it difficult for an infant to latch properly, a doctor would be responsible for releasing the band and giving the child a fuller range of oral motion.

However, as time passed, the popularity surrounding bottle-feeding grew, causing many women to no longer require medical intervention on behalf of their children. In fact, this style of feeding caused the procedure to fade away for a long time because of the superiority surrounding the idea that bottles were far better than the breast when it came to feeding a baby.

But now the trend is turning back toward breastfeeding, causing many babies to experience difficulties because of their lip or tongue tie. As a result, frenectomies are becoming more common again, allowing infants and their mothers to have a more enjoyable experience during these special bonding moments.

How to Know Your Baby Might Have a Lip or Tongue Tie

If you notice your baby is struggling with any of the following, it’s time to schedule an appointment to see a pediatric dentist and/or lip and tongue tie specialist:

• Difficulty latching while breastfeeding
• Acid reflux or colic
• Slow weight gain
• Gumming of the nipple while attempting to nurse
• Increased fussiness

As a mother, you may also notice some signs, including:

• Blocked milk ducts
• Painful feedings
• Slow milk flow
• Swollen nipples

How a Professional Can Help

By scheduling an appointment with a trusted expert, you can expect personalized service that is designed to address your child’s lip or tongue tie. By moving forward with a frenectomy in Palm Harbor, you and your child can prepare for a more positive and effective nursing journey that allows you to experience greater joy while caring for your baby’s needs.

If you are unsure whether your baby needs a frenectomy, do not hesitate to contact a pediatric dentist. It is their expertise and training that will guide you to decide what is right for you and your little one.

About the Author
Dr. Maggie Davis earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Florida. As a board-certified pediatric dentist and diplomate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she is certified in treating infant and pediatric tongue ties and lip ties by the American Board of Laser Surgery. She is also a graduate of Dr. Richard Baxter’s Tongue Tie Academy and TOTS: Tethered Oral Tissue program. If you believe your child may be dealing with a lip or tongue tie, call our office at (727) 786-7551 or visit our website.