Frenectomy

Infant Tongue & Lip Tie Release

Some babies are born with what are known as tongue (lingual), lip (labial), or cheek (buccal) ties, which are oral restrictions that may affect feeding. While some infants show no noticeable symptoms, others—along with their mothers—may experience feeding challenges and discomfort.

At Agape Pediatric Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating and treating oral ties. If you or your baby are experiencing difficulties, we recommend an in-office evaluation to determine whether an oral restriction may be contributing to the issue.

Our Mission

When a surgical procedure such as a frenectomy is considered, it’s always positioned as a last-resort solution. We only recommend it after thoroughly exploring all other options and ensuring parents are fully informed about the follow-up therapies required to help their child thrive.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms of Oral Restriction

If your baby has a tongue, lip, or cheek tie, you may notice feeding-related challenges affecting both mother and baby. For mothers, symptoms can include creased, flattened, or blanched nipples after feeding, as well as cracked, bruised, or blistered nipples due to difficulty with latch. Some mothers experience severe pain while nursing, and their breasts may not feel fully emptied after a feeding session. In some cases, persistent plugged ducts or mastitis can occur, leading to further discomfort and complications.

For babies, feeding difficulties may present as trouble latching or maintaining a proper latch, frequently sliding off the nipple, or falling asleep while trying to nurse. Some infants may experience colic or reflux-like symptoms, seem constantly hungry, or require prolonged feeding sessions. Others may exhibit gumming or chewing of the nipple instead of an effective suck. Additionally, some babies with oral restrictions struggle to take a pacifier or bottle, making feeding even more challenging.

If you or your baby are experiencing these symptoms, a consultation with Dr. G. She is experienced in evaluating and treating oral ties can help determine the best course of action.

Understanding Tongue, Lip & Cheek Ties

Tongue Tie

A tongue tie occurs when the frenum under the tongue is too tight, restricting the tongue’s mobility. In some cases, this restriction is clearly visible at the front of the tongue, known as an anterior tongue tie, while in others, it is hidden underneath, referred to as a posterior tongue tie. Both types can interfere with a baby's ability to latch properly, create suction, and effectively draw out milk during breastfeeding. If left untreated, a tongue tie may lead to long-term concerns such as speech difficulties, sensitivities to food textures or picky eating habits, delayed dental development or crowded teeth, and even sleep problems.

Lip & Cheek Tie

A lip or cheek tie occurs when the frenum in these areas is too tight, restricting movement and preventing the lip from flanging properly during nursing. This can lead to a shallow latch, making it difficult for the baby to feed effectively and causing discomfort for both the baby and mother. Common signs of a lip or cheek tie include friction blisters on the upper lip, milk pooling under the lip—which can increase the risk of early childhood cavities—and, as the child grows, the potential for gaps between the front teeth (diastema) when adult teeth come in.

Frenectomy for Tongue, Lip & Cheek Ties

A frenectomy is a simple procedure that corrects a congenital condition in which the tongue, lip, or cheek frenum (a small band of tissue) is too tight, restricting movement and function. These oral restrictions, commonly known as tongue, lip, or cheek ties, can affect breastfeeding, digestion, speech development, and even dental growth. If your lactation consultant or doctor has recommended a procedure to address feeding difficulties or other concerns, an oral restriction may be present. At Agape Pediatric Dentistry, we use gentle laser technology to perform precise, minimally invasive frenectomies, helping to restore function and support overall well-being.

Laser Technology for a Gentler Frenectomy

At Agape Pediatric Dentistry, we use the Fotona laser to perform precise and minimally invasive frenectomies. This advanced laser technology offers several benefits, including minimized bleeding, less swelling and discomfort, a reduced risk of infection, shorter procedure times, and faster healing and recovery. The procedure begins with the BabyLase process, which gently releases the fascia (connective tissue) to improve mobility. If additional release is needed to restore proper function, a laser frenectomy may be recommended for optimal results.

What to Expect During Your Baby’s Frenectomy

Your baby will be treated with gentle, loving care throughout the procedure, and we take every precaution to minimize discomfort while ensuring a calm, safe experience. Before the procedure, your baby will be fitted with protective eyewear, and a topical numbing gel will be applied to enhance comfort. During the procedure, the laser gently releases the restricted tissue in a quick process that lasts only a few minutes. Once complete, your baby will be immediately returned to you for comfort. We encourage you to nurse or feed your baby right away, as this helps soothe them and promotes healing.

Our Location

Welcome to Agape Pediatric Dentistry in Peachtree Corners, your local Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist located right above Trader Joe's at The Forum at Peachtree Corners. We service families in Peachtree Corners, Peachtree Station, Norcross, CC of the South, Johns Creek, DoubleGate, Duluth, Dunmoor, Embry Hills, The Fields Club, Winwood, Glenn Abbey, Berkeley Lakes, Neely Farm, Oxford Mill, Park Brook, St Ives CC, St Marlo, Sugar Mill and surrounding areas.