Oral Surgery
Laser Frenectomy in Sarasota, FL
Gentle tongue-tie and lip-tie release for infants, children, and adults.
A frenectomy is a simple procedure that releases a restrictive frenum—the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. When a frenum is too tight or thick, it can interfere with breastfeeding, speech, breathing, and oral development. Using soft-tissue laser technology, the procedure is fast, precise, and promotes rapid healing with minimal discomfort.
Dentistry Designed Around Whole-Body Health
Understanding Ties
Tongue Tie and Lip Tie Explained
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the lingual frenum restricts the tongue’s range of motion. A lip tie involves a tight labial frenum that limits upper lip movement. Both conditions can appear at birth and affect people at every age.
- Infants Difficulty latching during breastfeeding, poor weight gain, colic-like symptoms, and maternal pain during nursing
- Children Speech delays, picky eating, mouth breathing, and difficulty with oral hygiene as teeth come in
- Teens and adults Neck tension, jaw pain, sleep-disordered breathing, speech articulation issues, and restricted tongue mobility
- Airway connection A tied tongue sits low and back in the mouth, which can narrow the airway and contribute to mouth breathing and poor sleep quality
The Biological Perspective
Why Frenectomy Matters for Whole-Body Health
In biological dentistry, the mouth is understood as part of a connected system. A restricted frenum does not just affect the tongue or lip—it can influence posture, breathing patterns, facial development, and even digestive function. Nasal breathing is essential for filtering air, producing nitric oxide, and supporting proper craniofacial growth in children.
When a tongue tie forces mouth breathing, it sets off a chain of compensations throughout the body. Releasing the restriction early—or at any age—allows the body to return to healthier function. We pair every frenectomy with guidance on myofunctional exercises to retrain tongue posture and maximize results.
How It Works
The Laser Frenectomy Process
Assessment
A functional evaluation checks tongue mobility, lip movement, and how the restriction affects feeding, speech, or breathing.
Laser Release
A soft-tissue dental laser precisely releases the frenum. The laser cauterizes as it works, meaning minimal bleeding and no sutures in most cases.
Aftercare
Stretching exercises begin the same day to prevent reattachment. For infants, parents are guided on nursing positions and wound care.
The entire procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes. Infants can nurse immediately afterward, and most children and adults resume normal activities the same day.
Signs to Watch For
When to Consider a Frenectomy
- Baby struggles to latch, clicks during feeding, or has slow weight gain
- Child has a noticeable speech delay or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
- Heart-shaped tongue tip when extended or inability to touch the roof of the mouth
- Chronic mouth breathing, snoring, or restless sleep in children or adults
- Gap between upper front teeth caused by a thick labial frenum
- Neck or jaw tension that does not respond to other treatments
Breathe Better
Release the Restriction, Restore Function
Whether for a newborn struggling to nurse or an adult dealing with chronic tension, a laser frenectomy can make a meaningful difference. Contact our Sarasota office to schedule a functional assessment.
Frenectomy FAQ
- What is a frenectomy?
- A frenectomy is a procedure that releases a tight or thick frenum—the small band of tissue under the tongue (tongue tie) or connecting the upper lip to the gums (lip tie).
- At what age can a frenectomy be performed?
- A frenectomy can be done at any age, from newborns just days old to adults. Early treatment in infants often resolves breastfeeding difficulties quickly.
- Does a laser frenectomy hurt?
- For infants, topical numbing gel is applied and the procedure takes only seconds. Older children and adults receive local anesthesia. Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after treatment.
- How long does the procedure take?
- The actual laser release takes less than a minute for infants and under 15 minutes for older patients. The full appointment including assessment and aftercare instructions is typically 30 to 45 minutes.
- Can my baby nurse right after the procedure?
- Yes. Infants are encouraged to breastfeed immediately after the frenectomy. Many parents notice an improvement in latch during that first feeding.
- What are the aftercare exercises?
- Stretching exercises performed several times a day help prevent the tissue from reattaching during healing. We demonstrate the exercises in detail and provide written instructions before you leave.
- What if the tie grows back?
- Reattachment can occur if stretching exercises are not performed consistently during the first few weeks. In rare cases a revision may be needed.
- How does a tongue tie affect breathing?
- A restricted tongue tends to rest low in the mouth rather than against the palate, which can narrow the airway and encourage mouth breathing. This affects sleep quality, facial development in children, and overall oxygenation.
- Do adults benefit from frenectomy?
- Yes. Adults with untreated tongue ties often experience neck tension, jaw pain, speech issues, and sleep-disordered breathing. Release combined with myofunctional therapy can significantly improve symptoms.
- Is a frenectomy covered by insurance?
- Some medical and dental plans cover frenectomy, particularly when documented as medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan, and our team can help you navigate your benefits.
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