From the Research
Lip and tongue tie release in school-aged children is a beneficial procedure when functional problems with speech, eating, or oral hygiene are present, and should be considered in conjunction with orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) to improve outcomes. The procedure, called a frenectomy or frenotomy, involves cutting or laser removal of the restrictive tissue (frenum) under the tongue or upper lip. For school-aged children, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia in a dental office, though some cases may require sedation. According to a recent review article 1, OMT plays a crucial role in pre- and post-surgical procedures, helping to establish proper tongue posture and reducing the probability of tissue reattachment after surgery.
Key benefits of the procedure include:
- Improved speech articulation
- Enhanced eating efficiency
- Better oral hygiene access
- Reduced risk of tissue reattachment with OMT
- Positive impact on self-esteem and aesthetics
Post-procedure care involves:
- Stretching exercises 4-6 times daily for 2-4 weeks to prevent reattachment
- Pain management with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for 2-3 days
- Potential speech therapy before and/or after the procedure to address established compensatory speech patterns
It is essential to note that the decision to pursue this treatment should be based on functional impairment rather than appearance alone, and parents should expect improvement but not immediate resolution of all issues, as retraining muscles and speech patterns takes time 1. The procedure works by releasing tension on muscles and allowing greater range of motion for the tongue or lip, which can improve overall oral function and quality of life.