Following laser treatment, you can typically expect little to no bleeding. If we provide gauze to bite down on, you should maintain gentle pressure on the area for 1o minutes. This pressure can be repeated with new gauze up to 3 times, for 30 minutes total.
A certain amount of oozing or bleeding is to be expected for the first two days.
You may experience minimal pain or discomfort that can be relieved with ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen.
Slight swelling around the treatment area is not uncommon.
For a Maxillary frenectomies (upper lip), you can apply ice to the outside of the upper lip to help reduce swelling.
For Lingual Frenectomies (tongue-tie), you can place soft ice chips under the tongue, alternating 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to reduce swelling and discomfort.
You may see some white spotted appearance around the edges of the treatment area. This special “bandaid” is applied by the laser to improve healing and reduce pain.
Once the numbness is gone, feel free to eat and drink normally. Avoid acidic and spicy foods because they can delay healing and also cause discomfort.
For 24 hours, please do not use mouthwash or rinses because they may sting. After the first day, gently rinse as needed with a warm salt water rinse, approximately one-half teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of water.
Brushing your teeth and gums normally will reduce bacteria in the mouth and promote healing. Please use care when brushing any areas that were treated with the laser. Not brushing can cause swollen or bleeding gums that can cause additional discomfort.
Lingual Frenectomy Exercises: It is important to move and exercise your tongue almost immediately after treatment:
20 times a day: Extend your tongue out of your mouth
5 times a day: Pretend to lick an ice cream cone.
Please call our office if you have any questions or concerns.
