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Tongue and lip ties are conditions that occur when the thin pieces of tissue connecting the tongue and lips to the floor of the mouth and gums, respectively, are too tight or restrict movement. These pieces of tissue are known as frenula or frenums. A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, refers to a condition where the frenulum beneath the tongue is unusually short, tight, or thick, limiting the tongue’s range of motion. This restriction can affect various functions such as breastfeeding, speech, swallowing, and oral hygiene. Similarly, a lip tie occurs when the frenulum attaching the upper or lower lip to the gums is overly tight, resulting in limited lip mobility. This can cause difficulties with breastfeeding, dental hygiene, and even orthodontic treatment later in life. To address tongue and lip ties, a procedure called a frenectomy is commonly performed. A frenectomy involves releasing or loosening the tight frenulum to allow for improved mobility and function.
While there are different techniques for performing frenectomies, one increasingly popular method involves using a CO2 laser. A CO2 laser, which emits a concentrated beam of light, is used to precisely cut and cauterize the frenulum tissue. The laser’s focused energy ensures minimal bleeding during the procedure and also seals blood vessels, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing the healing process. Additionally, the CO2 laser’s accuracy allows for greater control and precision compared to traditional surgical methods. During the frenectomy procedure with a CO2 laser, the area is typically numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The laser is then used to precisely remove or reshape the frenulum, freeing the tongue or lip for improved range of motion. The procedure is usually brief and performed on an outpatient basis.
After the frenectomy, it’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions provided by the healthcare professional. This typically includes keeping the area clean, practicing gentle stretching exercises, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Recovery times may vary, but most individuals experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities relatively quickly. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a pediatric dentist, oral surgeon, or ENT specialist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendation. They can evaluate the severity of the tongue or lip tie and determine whether a frenectomy, including the use of a CO2 laser, is necessary.
Dr. Susan is certified as an Ambassador for The Breathe Institute, certified with the Tongue-Tie Academy, and Light Scalpel CO2 Laser. She works with each individual newborn, baby, kids and teens and the families to provide the best outcome for tongue and lip tie releases.
Happy Kids
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“I took my daughter to Evergreen Pediatric & Airway Dentistry twice and had very good experience. Dr. Susan Kim and her assistants are super patient and nice to children. They explained to my daughter how the appliances work by personification. For example, the brush is Mr. Itchy and the straw which sucks water is Mr. Thirsty. They make sure that my daughter understands everything and is well prepared before operating, so that she won’t be afraid. And they gave her toys and stickers as a reward every time. My daughter said she liked this dentistry and I do recommend it to those who have children. Most importantly, for any procedures they would take to my kid, they show much considerations to double confirm how much the cost are covered by insurance provider to get a final reasonable treatment plan with the least cost. Very professional and patients friendly. Solid 5 star recommendation.”
– Infinity HY
“Dr. Susan and her staff are always so friendly, gentle and patient. They put my 4 kiddos right at easy for their cleanings. The office is spotless and I see great care taken in cleanliness and proper infection control. We’ve been patients for 8 years and proudly recommend this office.”
– Erin Lysaght
“Dr. Susan Kim and the staff at Evergreen Pediatric & Airway Dentistry are phenomenal. Dr. Susan is extremely knowledgable, patient and kind. My kids love going to the dentist because she engages with them, answering their questions and explaining things in kid terminology. You can tell she treats her staff with the same kindness as her patients which is also very important to me.”
– Michelle Chattin
“Dr. Susan Kim and the staff were amazing. My three year old had to get his tooth extracted and they made sure my son felt safe during the whole procedure. He didnt even cry once. I realized I didnt have to worry so much. Thank you so much Dr. Kim and co.”
– Sunah Park
“Dr Kim and staff are great at making children feel comfortable. My two-year-old daughter actually looked like she enjoyed the experience, which is saying something when you’re going to the dentist. I would highly recommend.”
– JD Sullivan
“Dr. Susan is an excellent dentist and her assistants are super nice and very caring with kids. They are always very pleasant and make my kids feel very comfortable. We love them all!”
– Karla Armendariz
“We just had our first “happy visit” and it was a dream. Our toddler has grown fearful of anything involving medical care. This is the third dentist we tried and it really was the charm! I was completely blown away by how warm, patient, and understanding they were. They put in all the effort to make things as fun and relaxed as possible and didn’t rush the process one bit. 5 stars aren’t near enough.”
– Jill B
“We have had Many appointments for our infant son between pediatrician, pediatric dentist and postpartum for his first few weeks of life. We have been by far the most impressed with Evergreen Pediatric & Airway Dentistry We really can’t say enough good things about them. They are all so friendly and make the whole process seamless! We HIGHLY recommend them!”
– Lori Healow
“My two boys love Dr. Susan and her team! They are very professional, kind and caring. I feel very lucky that Evergreen Pediatric & Airway Dentistry takes care of my children’s health and well-being.”
– Stephanie Hartmann
“Always great experience with Dr Kim! My kids have been coming here since 2015 and every time it is a diligent care with attention and ready to answer any questions. We love Dr Susan!!”
– Maria Stepanyuk
Common Questions About Dental Emergencies
Can you help with my child’s dental emergency?
Over more than two decades of dental practice, Dr. Susan has helped countless children with dental emergencies. You can rest confidently in her skills and expertise to help make your child’s smile right. Our top-notch dental team delivers compassionate and gentle care and will make sure your little one receives the best treatment possible during their dental crisis.
What are common dental emergencies that kids have?
There are few emergencies that Dr. Susan hasn’t seen in her many years of practice. Some are certainly more common than others. Emergencies that we see often include toothaches caused by a cavity or an infection, cracked teeth, and broken teeth. In most cases, we’re able to resolve all these situations with restorative dentistry.
Can I take my child to the ER for dental emergencies?
Yes, you can. However, since they don’t have dentists on staff, your child won’t be able to get a tooth filling, pulpotomy, extraction, or other dental procedure. If they have an infection, the ER can provide antibiotics to keep it under control until they can see us. ER doctors may also be able to prescribe pain-relieving medication that is stronger than an over-the-counter medication.
What if I have a dental emergency without insurance?
Just because you don’t have dental insurance doesn’t mean you shouldn’t receive the same level of care as someone who does. We’ll happily treat your dental emergency, and we provide several payment options to take care of the cost, including third-party financing through CareCredit. We’ll do our best to make sure you get the care you need.
