As a parent, you want to make sure your child heals without issue after a laser revision. The dentist will explain what to expect and what is normal in the days and weeks after the procedure, but trying to discern for yourself isn’t always easy. Is that scar tissue forming? Should you be worried about what you’re seeing? Don’t jump to conclusions just yet. Instead, learn more about the healing process and how to help ensure your child has a successful recovery.
What Does Normal Healing Look Like After Laser Revision?
You’re not a doctor, nor are you a lip and tongue-tie expert, so what you see after your child’s frenectomy might seem concerning at first. White patches, swelling, redness, and mild discomfort may make you want to call for help, but before you do, learn what normal healing looks like.
What is Normal?
- You will notice reduced swelling and redness with each passing day. By the end of the first week, you will see substantial improvement.
- White and yellow diamond-shaped patches are normal and can last 2-3 weeks as the tissue heals. They will gradually shrink and fade away over time.
- Your baby or child feels more comfortable eating or latching.
- They begin to move their lip or tongue more.
- There will be less discomfort over time, and less sensitivity.
When Should You Call the Dentist?
If you notice your child’s lip or tongue tie starting to reattach, call the dentist immediately. This can limit mobility and reduce flexibility. Since scar tissue is a possibility with any wound, it’s important to closely monitor their recovery.
Laser revision often minimizes scarring potential because the concentrated beam cauterizes the tissue. However, scarring can still happen if injury occurs during recovery or if poor oral hygiene or infection interrupts healing.
How Closely Should You Follow Aftercare Instructions?
Your child’s dentist gives you aftercare instructions for a reason. Following them means the difference between successful healing and possible retreatment.
Stretching exercises are among the most crucial steps you can take to help your child heal after a frenectomy. They keep the tissue flexible and mobile while preventing scar tissue from forming and restricting movement. If you’re unsure how to do the stretches, ask before leaving the dentist’s office.
You’ll also want to limit certain activities that might strain the wound (like using pacifiers), administer safe doses of pain relief medication to ease discomfort, practice good oral hygiene to prevent infection, and schedule a follow-up visit a few weeks after the procedure to check their progress.
Understanding the healing process after laser revision helps you approach your child’s recovery with greater confidence. Your child’s dentist is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
About the Author
Dr. Garcia-DeMartino is a lip and tongue-tie specialist in Phillipsburg. She attended the International World Clinical Laser Institute to learn more about soft tissue lasers and how to use them to improve lip and tongue movement. She treats patients of all ages with lip and tongue-ties and regularly performs frenectomies to improve their daily lives. Want to make sure your child heals successfully after their procedure? Visit our website or call (908) 859–5260 to schedule an appointment.