A frenectomy—a procedure to correct a tongue tie or lip tie—can significantly improve your child’s ability to nurse, eat, and eventually speak. However, preparing your child for their first frenectomy appointment can be daunting. As a parent, you want to ensure the experience is as stress-free and comforting as possible.
While Milk & Milestones Therapy in New Jersey does not offer frenectomy procedures, we firmly believe in providing crucial post-frenectomy support with pediatric physical and occupational therapy. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare your child for this important procedure.
Understanding the Procedure
While you will want to comfort and educate your child, it is important that you thoroughly understand what a frenectomy involves. In simple terms, a frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to remove or modify the frenulum, a small fold of tissue that restricts the movement of the tongue or lip. This procedure can be performed using a laser or scissors, and it is generally quick with minimal discomfort.
By familiarizing yourself with the specifics, you can answer any questions your child might have. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, make a note of them so that you can ask your child’s dentist or pediatric oral surgeon.
Choose the Right Practitioner
Selecting a skilled and experienced practitioner is the next step. Make sure the provider is experienced in performing frenectomies on children and comes highly recommended. Additionally, visiting the practitioner beforehand can help you gauge the environment and ensure it’s child-friendly, which is important for your child’s comfort. With the right practitioner, you should feel comfortable asking any questions so that you and your child can feel as prepared as possible.
Prepare Through Discussion
Talk to your child about the appointment in a calm and reassuring manner. Use age-appropriate language to explain what will happen during the procedure. For example, you might say, “The doctor will help make your tongue feel less stuck, so it’s easier to eat and talk.” It may be best to avoid using words like “cut” or “pain” that might cause unnecessary fear.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Frame the frenectomy as a positive step towards making things easier or more comfortable for them. Explain how the procedure will help in specific ways, such as making eating more enjoyable or improving how they speak, which can be something your child can look forward to.
Consider a Pre-Visit
If possible, call and arrange a pre-visit to the clinic where the frenectomy will be performed. Allowing your child to meet the practitioner and familiarize themselves with the environment can reduce anxiety. Some clinics have child-friendly spaces and staff trained to deal with children’s fears and questions.
Play Pretend
A great way to prepare your child is to role-play the procedure at home. You can pretend to be the doctor, and your child can be the patient. Explain each step as you pretend to examine them. You can also switch roles and let your child play the doctor. This can make the situation seem more familiar and less intimidating.
Bring Comfort Items
On the day of the appointment, let your child bring along a favorite toy, blanket, or any item that gives them comfort. Having a familiar object can provide a sense of security in an unfamiliar setting.
Stay Calm and Supportive
Children often look to their parents to gauge how they should feel about a new experience. If you remain calm and positive, your child is more likely to feel secure and less anxious. During the appointment, stay by your child’s side if possible, holding their hand and speaking soothingly.
Explain Aftercare
After the procedure, explain to your child that they will feel better soon, and that you will help care for them and will be present when they need you. Generally, there may be some mild discomfort after the procedure, which can usually be managed with simple pain relief methods like cold compresses or over-the-counter pain relief suitable for children.
Look Forward to Post-Frenectomy Care
If you’ve planned post-frenectomy therapy with Milk & Milestones Therapy, let your child know what to expect. You can let your child know that the therapy could include gentle exercises or visits to a therapist (you can also choose to say “doctor”) who will help their healing process so they feel better sooner.
Celebrate the Milestone
After the procedure, acknowledge your child’s bravery. Perhaps plan a small treat or a favorite activity as a way to celebrate their courage and the completion of the frenectomy. This can help end the experience on a positive note, reinforcing the idea that they’ve done something significant toward improving their well-being.
Milk & Milestones in New Jersey is Here to Support You and Your Child
Preparing your child for a frenectomy involves clear communication, reassurance, and plenty of emotional support. By taking the time to ensure your child understands and feels comfortable with the procedure, you’re setting the stage for a smoother experience and optimal recovery. Remember, the goal is not just to prepare them for the frenectomy but also to ensure they come out of the experience feeling positive and empowered.
Milk & Milestones Therapy in New Jersey prides itself on our post-frenectomy support and the countless families that have benefitted from our pediatric physical and occupational therapy. To schedule a consultation and learn how our services can help your child eat, speak, and reach other developmental milestones following a frenectomy, call us today at 201-401-0702.