Frenectomy for Children | Tongue and Lip Tie Treatment

Frenectomies

Addressing Tongue and Lip Ties

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure designed to release restrictive tissue attachments—often referred to as tongue ties (ankyloglossia) or lip ties—that can hinder normal oral function. These ties occur when a band of tissue under the tongue or inside the upper lip is too short or thick, limiting movement and potentially affecting feeding, speech, and overall oral development. While these issues can be more noticeable in infants who struggle with breastfeeding, older children may also experience challenges such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds or eating certain foods.

Who Might Need a Frenectomy?

Infants with Feeding Issues

A tight tongue or lip tie can make it hard for babies to latch properly during breastfeeding, leading to inadequate milk intake, discomfort for the mother, and poor weight gain for the infant. Correcting the tie can often resolve these concerns quickly.

Children with Speech Impediments

Some speech problems, like trouble articulating “R,” “L,” or “TH” sounds, may stem from restricted tongue movement. While speech therapy can help, a frenectomy might be recommended if the tie is significantly limiting tongue mobility.

Difficulty Eating Solid Foods

Older children with lip or tongue ties may struggle to maneuver certain textures or shapes of food in their mouth, leading to picky eating or issues with swallowing.

Our Holistic, Individualized Approach

At Burbank Kids Dental Corner, we recognize that not all tongue or lip ties require intervention. Social media discussions have increased awareness of frenectomies, but every child’s situation is unique. Our pediatric dental specialists perform a comprehensive assessment—considering feeding or speech evaluations, comfort level, and overall oral health—before recommending any procedure. We collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as lactation consultants or speech therapists, to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan.

Detailed Examination

We evaluate the tie’s thickness, position, and impact on oral function using both visual assessment and sometimes diagnostic tools.

Interdisciplinary Coordination

We often consult with lactation experts, pediatricians, or speech therapists to confirm whether the frenectomy could offer real improvements.

The Frenectomy Procedure

A frenectomy is typically quick and can be done in our office under local anesthesia or with additional sedation if your child is especially anxious. Depending on the child’s age and specific needs, we may use:

Most children can return to normal activities almost immediately, though we provide post-operative instructions to prevent infection and aid healing. Some mild soreness is normal, but children usually adapt very quickly.

Aftercare and Recovery

Oral Exercises & Stretching

In some cases, we recommend simple tongue or lip exercises to prevent the tissue from reattaching and to promote proper mobility.

Monitor Feeding or Speech

For infants, parents often notice an immediate improvement in breastfeeding latch. Older children might require follow-up sessions with a speech therapist to maximize benefits.

Follow-Up Appointment

We generally schedule a quick checkup to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns.

When Are Space Maintainers Removed?

The space maintainer stays in place until X-rays and clinical examination show that the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. At that point, the appliance is simply removed, allowing the adult tooth to grow into its proper position. This process helps your child avoid preventable alignment problems and can simplify any potential orthodontic treatments they might need later on.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re concerned about a possible tongue or lip tie—or if you’ve been advised that your child might need a frenectomy—let the caring, experienced team at Burbank Kids Dental Corner provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover whether a frenectomy is the right step to help your child thrive in feeding, speech, and everyday comfort.

At Kids Dental Corner, our goal is to preserve your child’s natural teeth whenever possible while ensuring they receive the highest standard of care. If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health, contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions About Restorative Dentistry

Should a cavity in a baby tooth be treated?

Yes! Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in chewing, speech development, and guiding permanent teeth. Untreated cavities can lead to pain, infections, and premature tooth loss, which may require extensive future dental work.

If your child has a cavity, early intervention ensures a quick and comfortable solution, preventing further damage and discomfort.

How do I know if my child needs a frenectomy?

If your infant struggles with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, has difficulty gaining weight, or experiences excessive gas due to swallowing air, they may have a tongue or lip tie. In older children, speech difficulties and trouble eating certain solid foods may also indicate the need for evaluation.

A consultation with our experienced pediatric dentists will help determine whether a frenectomy is the right solution for your child.

When is a tooth extraction necessary?

Tooth extractions are considered a last resort and are only recommended when a tooth cannot be saved through other restorative methods. Reasons for extraction may include:

Severe decay or infection beyond repair.
Extra or impacted teeth interfering with normal development.
Orthodontic needs, such as creating space for braces.

For permanent tooth loss, options like space maintainers for baby teeth and dental implants or bridges for adult teeth can help maintain function and aesthetics.

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