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Laser Tongue Tie
What is Laser Tongue Tie?
The tongue is a vital muscle in the mouth, crucial for functions like talking, chewing, swallowing and tasting. Beneath it is the lingual frenum, a soft tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
When this frenum is too short or thick, it can limit the tongue's range of motion and make your tongue feel "stuck", a condition known as tongue tie or Ankyloglossia. This limitation can impede the full functions of the tongue and in some cases, intervention such as removing the frenum with a laser may be necessary.
Tongue tie is often incorrectly thought of as a condition that only affects infants, as it is typically diagnosed and treated in babies. However, there is a possibility it can go unnoticed and cause issues later in life. While it's usually never too late to get laser tongue tie, early correction can help reduce potential side effects.
Why is Tongue Tie a Cause for Concern?
Tongue tie can manifest differently among individuals. Some may not experience significant difficulties or may adapt well to the condition. However, for others, tongue tie can present challenges that affect different aspects of their lives.
In Infants
- Tongue tie can make it difficult for babies to latch onto the breast during nursing. Mothers may experience significant pain during breastfeeding and complications such as milk blebs and sores from the poor latch.
- They may experience problems such as reflux, gas, poor weight gain and milk leaking from the mouth during feeding.
- These difficulties with breastfeeding can lead to issues like poor nourishment and sleeping problems.
In Children
- Tongue tie in children can lead to challenges that might not be immediately noticeable but become more apparent with age.
- The restrictions in the tongue's range of motion can impact essential functions like moving food, swallowing and speech sound formation.
- It may impact speech development as the child grows older, leading to certain sounds being difficult to articulate.
In Adults
- Tongue tie in adults can create challenges in social and work environments, impacting self-esteem.
- They may experience difficulty in brushing away food debris and swallowing, which can result in poor dental health such as tooth decay and gingivitis.
- Adults with severe tongue tie often experience neck and shoulder tension, headaches and sleep problems such as snoring and sleep apnea.
Tongue tie isn't just about tripping over words.
How is tongue tie corrected?
Tongue tie surgery singapore is typically corrected through procedures aimed at releasing the restrictive attachment of the tongue. Traditionally, instruments like scalpels, scissors or electrocautery were used. At Dental Designs, we use a laser for an accurate and faster procedure, with minimal bleeding and quicker healing.
There are two types of procedures: frenotomy and frenectomy. Frenotomy is a simple surgery that involves snipping or making a cut in the frenulum to free it. This procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
For older children or cases where the frenum is too thick, a frenectomy may be necessary. This procedure may require stitches, as it involves completely removing the frenum tissue. Overall, both are effective in resolving tongue tie, allowing patients to experience improved tongue mobility.
Do all tongue ties need to be fixed?
Not all cases of tongue tie require treatment as the impact of this condition can vary widely among individuals. At Dental Designs, we carefully assess each case individually to determine the best course of action. In mild cases, a "wait and see" approach may be recommended, as some babies may outgrow the condition on their own as they grow older.
The necessity for treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether it is causing any issues with breastfeeding, speech, or other oral functions.
For some individuals, a tongue tie may not cause any significant problems and may not require treatment. In such cases, we may recommend monitoring the condition over time to ensure that it does not worsen or cause issues in the future.
What happens if tongue tie is left untreated?
With mild tongue tie surgery baby, doctors may take a wait-and-see approach, monitoring the condition to see if the frenum loosens or causes any long-term issues with breastfeeding or other oral functions.
Similarly, for adults without immediate dental concerns, close monitoring with regular dental check up may be advised.
It is important to note that since tongue anatomy remains constant, tongue tie will not resolve naturally on its own. However, many people learn to manage symptoms over time with proper care.
Our goal is to offer an appropriate and least invasive treatment based on each individual's needs.
Explore Our Machines for Laser Tongue Tie
SiroLaser Blue
This laser uses diode as its active medium, making it particularly efficient for cutting soft tissue.
Diode lasers utilise heat to sterilise and cauterize the treatment area simultaneously, reducing bleeding and the risk of infection during the procedure.
Biolase Waterlase Laser System
This system combines low-level laser energy with a spray of water, allowing it to cut both soft and hard tissues.
This technology enables the laser to target the frenal attachment, making it an effective option for treating tongue ties.
SiroLaser Blue
This laser uses diode as its active medium, making it particularly efficient for cutting soft tissue.
Diode lasers utilise heat to sterilise and cauterize the treatment area simultaneously, reducing bleeding and the risk of infection during the procedure.
Biolase Waterlase Laser System
This system combines low-level laser energy with a spray of water, allowing it to cut both soft and hard tissues.
This technology enables the laser to target the frenal attachment, making it an effective option for treating tongue ties.
Benefits of Laser Tongue Tie
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Laser tongue tie surgery enhances tongue mobility, promoting a natural swallowing pattern and self-cleansing of the mouth to reduce the risks of gum disease and decay, especially for individuals with moderate to severe tongue tie.
Additionally, it prevents serious long-term issues such as palatal development problems, tooth misalignment, dental cavities and speech impairments.
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Do You Know About Lip Ties?
Another vital piece of tissue in the mouth is the frenum that connects the upper lip to the gum between the top two front teeth. This tissue plays a crucial role in anchoring the lip to the jaw, facilitating proper lip movement and facial development.
When this frenum is overly constricted or thicker than normal, it is known as a lip tie.
Lip ties can restrict the natural movement of the two front teeth, preventing them from coming together properly and creating a noticeable gap between them.
Process of Laser Tongue Tie at Dental Designs
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1. Comprehensive Consultation
At Dental Designs, we believe in understanding your individual needs and concerns, which is why our consultation process is thorough and detailed.
During your personalised consultation session, our dentist will:
- Assess your gum health, discuss your symptoms and determine the suitability of Laser Tongue Tie specifically for your unique dental situation
- Analyse your medical background, which includes lifestyle factors such as smoking and current medications
- Take photographs of your smile for in-depth analysis and treatment planning
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2. Laser Tongue Tie Procedure
The procedure includes several key steps:
Anaesthesia - For older kids and adults, the dentist may administer local anaesthesia to numb the area to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. For infants, anaesthesia will not be required.
Release Attachment of Frenum Using Laser - A dental laser will be used to snip or make a cut in the frenum to free it. In cases where the tissue is too thick, a more extensive procedure may be indicated, involving complete removal of the frenum attachment.
Simultaneous Cauterization - The laser cuts and seals the tissue simultaneously, reducing bleeding and promoting faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
Stitches - Stitches may be indicated for more extensive procedures.
3. Post-Operative Care
After undergoing Laser Tongue Tie Treatment, it is essential to prioritise long-term oral health care to ensure the success of the treatment. This involves following the post-treatment instructions provided by your dentist, which may include specific guidelines for oral hygiene, diet and medication use.
Post-operative stretching exercises will often be recommended. These exercises involve gently lifting and moving the tongue to prevent the reattachment of the frenulum to the floor of the mouth.
You may experience mild discomfort after the procedure but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and should improve as you heal.
4. Review Checks
Attending regular follow-up appointments is crucial, as it allows your dentist to monitor your progress and ensure that the desired results have been achieved.
The dentist will examine your gums and ensure that there are no complications. These appointments are important for ensuring that your gums heal properly and that the results of the Laser Tongue Tie procedure are maintained over time.
Feature
Number of implants needed
Implant placement
Implant angulation
Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning
Treatment timeline
Traditional Implants
Requires one implant for each missing tooth
Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing
Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone
High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity
Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed
All-on-4 Implants
Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth
Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density
Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees
Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures
You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants
What It Means If You Choose All-on-4
Overall cost of treatment is reduced
Stable implants and artificial teeth
Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently
Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient
Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery
Feature
Number of implants needed
Implant placement
Implant angulation
Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning
Treatment timeline
Traditional Implants
Requires one implant for each missing tooth
Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing
Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone
High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity
Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed
All-on-4 Implants
Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth
Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density
Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees
Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures
You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants
What It Means If You Choose All-on-4
Overall cost of treatment is reduced
Stable implants and artificial teeth
Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently
Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient
Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery
Feature
Number of implants needed
Implant placement
Implant angulation
Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning
Treatment timeline
Traditional Implants
Requires one implant for each missing tooth
Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing
Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone
High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity
Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed
All-on-4 Implants
Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth
Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density
Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees
Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures
You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants
What It Means If You Choose All-on-4
Overall cost of treatment is reduced
Stable implants and artificial teeth
Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently
Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient
Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery
Feature
Number of implants needed
Implant placement
Implant angulation
Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning
Treatment timeline
Traditional Implants
Requires one implant for each missing tooth
Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing
Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone
High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity
Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed
All-on-4 Implants
Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth
Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density
Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees
Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures
You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants
What It Means If You Choose All-on-4
Overall cost of treatment is reduced
Stable implants and artificial teeth
Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently
Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient
Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery
Cost of Laser Tongue Tie Treatment in Singapore
The cost of Laser Tongue Tie Treatment at Dental Designs Clinic follows the guide price set by the Ministry of Health (Medisave).
Is tongue tie surgery covered by insurance? If you have medisave, it can be used to offset the cost of the procedure.
During your consultation, your dentist will assess your specific needs and provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, enabling you to make an informed decision about your treatment and budget accordingly.
STARTS FROM
$708.50
| Laser Frenectomy, Simple (Buccal/Lip Tie) | $708.50 |
| Laser Frenectomy, Simple (Anterior Tongue Tie) | $708.50 |
| Laser Frenectomy, Complex | $1,250 |
| Laser Frenectomy (Posterior Tongue Tie) | From $1,253.50 |
*Prices are inclusive of 9% GST
Creating Smiles, Changing Lives
Over 28 reviews
The service and doctor is the best in town! The customer service and receptionists are very friendly! Dr Phillip Miller and Dr Noah Teo is very nice and very professional on their skill! They also very patient to explain to me about the treatment!
Will come back again!
Thank you very much!
李岳侨
J. Kho
This dental clinic has very good staff who are well trained and friendly. The dentists are also very good and will explain the treatment in detail before starting treatment. The equipment is very high tech and I believe they are able to do high quality work as I did my crown here and it looks much better than my colleague who also recently did his at another place. The waiting room is also very comfortable. good job!
C. Zheng De
This clinic is one of the best I have ever seen. I saw dr Justin for my implant which I did many years ago, the tooth was loose, and other drs told me to remove it as they could not find out what brand it was but dr Justin was able to take 3d xrays and locate the brand and specially ordered the part in. he saved me from having to do a surgery to remove and put a new implant which would have cost me a bomb. the tooth looks even better than the original thanks to the experieced dental technician Katsuya from Japan.
Very happy and will keep coming back for my regular dental.
G. Hock An
my workplace is close by and I had a problem with my tooth for a few days, so I made an appointment to come down. The receptionist who booked my appointment was very helpful and friendly to explain the way to the clinic from my office. I saw Dr Nicholas who was able to do a root canal treatment on the same visit so that I didn't need to come back. I felt safe and comfortable to do my dental treatment here as the dental picks are all wrapped up and sterilized and only opened before each treatment when im inside.
P. Wendy
Customer testimonials
The service and doctor is the best in town! The customer service and receptionists are very friendly! Dr Phillip Miller and Dr Noah Teo is very nice and very professional on their skill! They also very patient to explain to me about the treatment!
Will come back again!
Thank you very much!
李岳侨
J. Kho
This dental clinic has very good staff who are well trained and friendly. The dentists are also very good and will explain the treatment in detail before starting treatment. The equipment is very high tech and I believe they are able to do high quality work as I did my crown here and it looks much better than my colleague who also recently did his at another place. The waiting room is also very comfortable. good job!
C. Zheng De
This clinic is one of the best I have ever seen. I saw dr Justin for my implant which I did many years ago, the tooth was loose, and other drs told me to remove it as they could not find out what brand it was but dr Justin was able to take 3d xrays and locate the brand and specially ordered the part in. he saved me from having to do a surgery to remove and put a new implant which would have cost me a bomb. the tooth looks even better than the original thanks to the experieced dental technician Katsuya from Japan.
Very happy and will keep coming back for my regular dental.
G. Hock An
my workplace is close by and I had a problem with my tooth for a few days, so I made an appointment to come down. The receptionist who booked my appointment was very helpful and friendly to explain the way to the clinic from my office. I saw Dr Nicholas who was able to do a root canal treatment on the same visit so that I didn't need to come back. I felt safe and comfortable to do my dental treatment here as the dental picks are all wrapped up and sterilized and only opened before each treatment when im inside.
P. Wendy
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Based on 1000+ Google reviews
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Tongue Tie In Singapore
The average duration of a laser gum tie (frenectomy) appointment is about 30 minutes. This includes preparation, the procedure, and any post-operative instructions or care. The procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive, with many patients experiencing little to no discomfort during or after the appointment.
Laser tongue tie (frenectomy) is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Possible risks and complications of laser frenectomy may include-
- Bleeding: Although laser procedures typically result in less bleeding than traditional surgery, some bleeding can occur during and after the procedure.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site, although this is rare.
- Pain or discomfort: Some patients may experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort after the procedure, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Recurrence of tongue tie: In some cases, the frenum may reattach and cause the tongue tie to recur, requiring additional treatment.
- Changes in tongue sensation or function: There is a small risk of changes in tongue sensation or function following the procedure, although these are usually temporary.
After a frenotomy, babies generally recover quickly and can often resume feeding shortly after the procedure. While many babies show immediate improvement in their feeding ability, some may need a little time to adjust to the changes. It's important for parents to follow any post-operative care instructions provided by their doctor to ensure proper healing.
For older children undergoing frenectomy, the recovery process may involve some soreness or discomfort for about a week or two. This discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. During this time, it's important to avoid foods that may irritate the surgical site and to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection. Most children recover fully within a few weeks and experience significant improvement in their oral function.
Laser tongue tie surgery is generally considered to be a relatively painless procedure. The laser cauterizes the tissue as it cuts, which helps to minimise bleeding and discomfort. Many patients, including infants and children, report little to no pain during or after the procedure. However, some individuals may experience mild discomfort or soreness in the days following the surgery, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Overall, the use of laser technology has made tongue tie surgery much more comfortable for patients compared to traditional surgical methods.