Tongue Tie
Our tongue-tie release procedure is based on precision: releasing the appropriate extent of tissues for maximal relief, not too much and not too little. The tongue is one of the most critical organs in our bodies as it has the ability to regulate and shape orofacial structure and musculature.
Patient Resources
Patient Registration
Please preregister with our office by printing out our registration paperwork and returning it to our office prior to your scheduled appointment if time permits. The paperwork can be returned to us via email, mail, or fax. Should you have previous records you would like to forward to us, please contact your former dental office to authorize the release of records.
When can I schedule a visit?
Palmetto Smiles of Beaufort is open Monday and Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We will reserve your appointment as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
Is there a waiting list?
If your preferred appointment time is not available, we will still reserve an appointment for you, while working to get you in at your preferred time.
Why do I need a Tongue-Tie release?
The tongue is crucial for optimal speech, chewing, swallowing, oral hygiene, and breathing. It also plays a key role in the development of the jaw’s skeletal structures and the airway. Due to its importance in so many functions, restricted tongue mobility can lead to compensatory behaviors. These behaviors may negatively affect nasal breathing, cause snoring due to low tongue posture, or contribute to chronic stress on other muscles of the head and neck.
The tongue is also connected to the entire body through a system of connective tissue known as fascia. A restrictive tongue may place tension on the fascia networks, causing neck tension, pain, and postural dysfunction. Our frenuloplasty approach addresses the changes that occur during a tongue-tie release and prepares the body for acceptance and optimal healing post-treatment.
After the procedure
Patients should expect some mild swelling and discomfort as a normal process of wound healing. Pain is controlled with over-the-counter pain medications. Other symptoms usually self-resolve over the course of 1-2 weeks with proper rest and myofunctional therapy.
Our group is highly active in clinical research and committed to anything that we can do to provide our patients with the highest level of care. We are delighted by the opportunity to share our knowledge and experience to help inspire the field to move towards higher standards in the delivery of myofunctional and airway health.
Did you know?
Dr. Wallace is also fully trained and proctored by Dr. Soroush Zaghi and serves as a The Breathe Institute Ambassador.
LightScalpel CO2 Laser
We are excited to announce that we now offer laser dentistry with the LightScalpel CO2 laser. This specialized device takes oral surgery to a whole new level. Using a concentrated beam of light, the laser vaporizes tissue as it seals blood vessels, resulting in a quicker recovery for patients.
Benefits of LightScalpel CO2 Laser:
- Less Bleeding
- Less Swelling
- Less Discomfort
- Less Infection Risk
- Less Invasive
- Less Time
- Reduced Risk of Scarring
How does Palmetto Smiles of Beaufort use LightScalpel Laser?
This American-made device has been approved by the FDA for use in soft tissue surgical procedures. At Palmetto Smiles, LightScalpel CO2 laser is used for the following procedures:
- Frenectomy – Releasing tongue- or lip-ties
- Gingivectomy – Removal of excess or diseased gum tissue for the treatment of periodontitis
- Gingivoplasty – Reshaping gum tissue to treat “gummy smile” or lengthen the appearance of teeth that are too short
- Excision of Fibroma – Removal of benign fibroids or fibroid tumors
- Biopsies – Removal of suspicious soft tissue, such as oral cancer, for further testing
- Dental Implant Procedures – Removal of gum tissue for implant placement access
Palmetto Smiles provides oral surgical treatment using the most precise and safe technology available through the LightScalpel CO2 laser. Find out how LightScalpel CO2 laser could make a difference in your oral care by contacting Palmetto Smiles of Beaufort today at (843) 524-7645 or request a consultation here.
Book an appointment
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