Alveolar Cleft Repair
At Facial & Oral Surgery Institute, Dr. Navid Senehi, DDS. MD. and Diplomate, American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery perform alveolar cleft repairs once appropriate eruption of permanent teeth has been determined while taking into account the child’s skeletal development. Alveolar cleft repair often requires orthodontic preparation to position the Alveolar Segment into proper alignment and create enough space for the permanent teeth. Dr. Senehi and your orthodontist will work together to prepare for any bone grafting that might be needed.
At this stage orthodontic preparation typically includes palatal expansion and the use of an orthodontic appliance that is fixed to the upper teeth. Dr. Senehi will expand and align the alveolar segments to prepare the bone graft site for optimum results.
Frenectomy
The labial frenum is the soft tissue attachment between the upper or lower gums and inner aspect of the lip. A frenum that is abnormally attached may contribute to periodontal problems and/or recession. A surgical frenectomy is recommended when an enlarged frenum prevents the teeth from coming together resulting in a gap (diastema) between the front teeth.
Ankyloglossia
Ankyloglossia typically known as tongue-tie is a congenital oral anomaly that affects the mobility of the tongue. It is caused by an unusually thick, or short Lingual Frenum. The Lingual Frenum is the membrane that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Ankyloglossia can range from complete, when the tongue is completely tethered to the floor of the mouth floor, to mild cases characterized by mucous membrane bands.
Mucocele
A mucocele is a small, fluid-filled growth in the mouth. Mucoceles typically form when a salivary duct is injured or becomes blocked. The function of the salivary glands in the mouth is to secrete saliva. The saliva can aid in the digestion of food, help protect teeth from decay and other functions.
If left untreated, mucoceles can lead to more serious issues, develop permanent scar tissue or increase in size.
Mucoceles may appear purplish in color. They can be found on the lower lip, the cheek, or the floor of the mouth.
