When it comes to children's dental treatments, the mind is more Parents go for baby teeth restoration or orthodontics. But sometimes the problem is deeper than a simple decay. The gums, this pink and delicate tissue, play a fundamental role in the health of the child's mouth. In some special situations, surgical intervention is considered the only principled and preventive solution. This is where the topic of children's gum surgery comes up. At first glance, the word surgery may be a little scary. It is natural. But many of these actions are minor, minimally invasive and completely controlled.
What is children's gum surgery and when is it done?
Gum surgery in children refers to a series of surgical interventions that are performed to correct gum tissue problems, frenulum (lip or tongue tie), expose hidden teeth or treat advanced infections. These surgeries are usually performed by a pediatric dental specialist or The best gum specialist in Tehran become The time to do it depends on the type of problem. Sometimes at a young age (3 to 6 years old) to correct the short frenulum of the tongue. Sometimes during the period of mixed teeth to help the growth of permanent teeth and in rare cases, to control severe gum diseases. The important point is that the decision to perform surgery is usually made after careful examination of radiographs, assessment of jaw growth and analysis of soft tissue condition. There is no hasty action.
What problems cause children's gum surgery?
- Abnormal frenulum (frenectomy): Sometimes the upper lip is too thick or short and creates a gap between the front teeth. In such a situation, a simple frenectomy surgery is performed.
- Short tongue frenulum (ankyloglossia): The child has difficulty in pronouncing some letters or there is a disturbance in breastfeeding. Surgical correction can improve performance.
- Hidden teeth: Some permanent teeth get stuck under the gum tissue. In this case, limited surgery is performed to reveal the crown of the tooth.
- Gum analysis: Although it is rare, it is seen in some children with jaw abnormalities or improper brushing.
- Advanced gum infections: In certain cases, abscess or severe inflammation may require drainage and surgery of children's gums.
The fact is that most of these interventions are short, outpatient and with minimal trauma.
The best age for pediatric gum surgery
If the issue is frenulum of the tongue, correction may be done even in infancy. For problems related to permanent teeth, usually between 7 and 12 years old is the right time; It means the period when the growth of teeth is being completed. Surgery should not be done too early or too late. It is up to the expert to determine the golden time. Excessive delay sometimes makes orthodontic treatment more complicated in the future.
Is gum surgery painful in children?
During gum surgery for children, no. Local anesthesia is used and the child does not feel pain. In some special cases, short-term anesthesia or sedation is also used, especially for very anxious children. After surgery, there may be some discomfort or mild inflammation. But it is usually controlled with simple pain relievers. Severe or unbearable pain is not common in this type of surgery. The important point is the psychological management of the child. A positive experience in a therapeutic environment prevents the formation of future fears.
Care after gum surgery for children
The recovery period is usually short. Some common recommendations:
- Consumption of soft and cool foods
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods
- Observation of oral hygiene as prescribed by the doctor
- Using mouthwash if prescribed
- Gum tissue can be restored in an amazing way. In children, this process occurs even faster than in adults.
Can a child's gum surgery be postponed?
In some cases, such as mild frenulum, the doctor may advise to wait and watch. But in situations where the problem causes speech disorder, orthodontic abnormality or chronic inflammation, delay can cause long-term complications. Unreasonable postponement sometimes turns today's simple treatment into tomorrow's complex intervention. Therefore, the decision should be based on expert evaluation, not just worrying about the term pediatric gum surgery.
The role of parents in the success of children's gum surgery treatment
Emotional support of parents is very decisive. Transferring anxiety to the child makes the treatment experience difficult. Calmness, simple explanation and not exaggerating the issue helps a lot. Remember: Children are amazingly resilient. If the treatment environment is suitable, they often cope better than we imagine.
