Frenectomy (Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Surgery)
 Frenectomy surgery is a simple but transformative procedure that corrects tight oral tissue—commonly referred to as tongue-tie or lip-tie. These conditions can lead to complications with feeding, speech, and oral comfort across all age groups. At Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our dental team provides safe, precise treatment to restore normal oral function for infants, children, and adults alike.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor oral surgery that removes or modifies a small band of tissue called the frenulum. This connective tissue is located beneath the tongue (lingual frenulum) or between the upper lip and gums (labial frenulum). When the frenulum is too tight or thick, it restricts movement and may lead to problems with eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.
These restrictive conditions are known as:
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Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia) - A tight lingual frenulum that limits tongue movement.
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Lip-Tie - A short or tight upper lip frenulum that affects lip mobility and oral function. |
There are three main types of oral frenectomy:
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Labial Frenectomy - Targets the tissue between the upper lip and gums.
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Lingual Frenectomy - Addresses the tissue under the tongue.
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Combined Procedures - Treats both tongue- and lip-tie when necessary. |
Left untreated, oral restrictions can interfere with everything from breastfeeding and speech to dental alignment and comfort.
Signs and Symptoms of Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie
Oral restrictions present different symptoms depending on age. Identifying these early is key to timely treatment.
In infants, common signs include:
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Breastfeeding Difficulties - Poor latch, prolonged feeding times, or nipple pain in the mother.
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Inadequate Weight Gain - Failure to thrive due to inefficient feeding.
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Gassiness or Colic Symptoms - From swallowing excessive air. |
Children may show:
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Speech Delays or Articulation Issues - Trouble with certain sounds or slow speech development.
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Oral Discomfort - Complaints of tightness or pulling when speaking or eating.
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Dental Issues - Gaps between teeth or difficulty with brushing and flossing. |
In adults, symptoms can include:
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Difficulty Speaking Clearly - Tongue limitations that impact pronunciation.
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Problems Eating Certain Foods - Trouble moving food efficiently in the mouth.
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Inadequate Oral Hygiene - Difficulty reaching all areas during brushing. |
Referrals for tongue-tie surgery may come from lactation consultants, pediatricians, or dental professionals who recognize the signs.
Who Performs a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy should be performed by an experienced provider trained in oral anatomy and surgical technique. The most common specialists include:
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Pediatric Dentists - Especially skilled in working with infants and children.
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Oral Surgeons - Handle complex or adult cases requiring surgical expertise.
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ENT Specialists - Particularly for cases involving breathing or sinus considerations. |
Some cases may require a multidisciplinary team approach, combining dental, speech, and feeding expertise. Providers trained in dental laser treatment offer minimally invasive options with excellent outcomes.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
There are two main methods for performing a frenectomy surgery:
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Scalpel or Surgical Scissors - A traditional approach that may involve stitches and longer recovery.
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Laser Frenectomy - A modern method that uses focused light energy for a cleaner, faster procedure. |
Laser frenectomy offers several advantages:
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Increased Precision - Targets only the tight tissue, preserving surrounding structures.
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Minimal Bleeding - The laser seals blood vessels during treatment.
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Reduced Discomfort - Less post-op pain and inflammation.
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Faster Healing - Shorter recovery time and often no need for sutures. |
The entire oral frenectomy procedure typically takes just a few minutes.
Pediatric Frenectomy (Infant and Child Treatment)
For infants and children, early treatment can prevent long-term feeding and speech challenges. Pediatric frenectomy is especially effective in:
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Improving Breastfeeding - Enhances latch, milk transfer, and maternal comfort.
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Supporting Speech Development - Facilitates better tongue movement for proper pronunciation.
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Preventing Dental Issues - Helps avoid spacing problems and gum recession. |
At Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we use gentle techniques tailored to infants’ needs. Post-treatment care includes stretches and may involve follow-ups with lactation or speech specialists.
Adult Frenectomy Procedure
Adults may benefit from frenectomy surgery if they experience persistent issues such as:
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Speech Challenges - Long-term tongue-tie can hinder clear speech.
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Oral Discomfort - Tight tissues may cause chronic tension or pain.
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Hygiene Difficulties - Difficulty reaching certain areas of the mouth. |
Recovery for adult patients may involve slightly more downtime compared to children, but the outcomes are equally impactful. Local anesthesia and pain management ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Prior to tongue- or lip-tie surgery, our dental team will conduct a thorough evaluation, including:
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Oral Exam - To assess the severity of the tie.
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Medical and Feeding History - Particularly important for infants.
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Care Planning - Tailored recommendations based on age and symptoms. |
During the procedure, laser technology ensures minimal discomfort and a quick experience—usually under 10 minutes. After surgery, patients may be advised to:
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Perform Gentle Stretches - To maintain tissue mobility.
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Manage Pain - With age-appropriate medications as needed.
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Attend Follow-Ups - For healing assessment and progress monitoring. |
Referrals to feeding therapists or speech pathologists may support long-term improvements in function.
FAQs
Is the frenectomy procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after a laser frenectomy. Infants may be fussy for a short time, while older children and adults often manage well with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does a frenectomy take?
The procedure typically takes just a few minutes. Laser frenectomies are especially quick and efficient, making them ideal for patients of all ages.
Will my child need general anesthesia?
No, general anesthesia is not usually required. Most pediatric frenectomies are performed with local anesthesia or a gentle numbing gel, even for infants.
Will insurance cover the frenectomy procedure?
Insurance coverage for frenectomy procedures varies. We recommend contacting our office with your insurance details so we can verify your benefits and provide a detailed estimate.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you or your child may benefit from frenectomy surgery, the team at Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is here to help. Our experienced providers offer gentle care in a supportive environment, with a focus on restoring oral mobility and function. Early evaluation is especially critical for infants and children to prevent long-term issues.
Call 508-996-3131 to schedule your consultation and learn more about your treatment options for tongue- and lip-tie.
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