LIP TIES AND
TONGUE TIES
Consultations for
Lip Ties and Tongue Ties
Our pediatric specialists are trained to diagnose and treat lip and tongue ties in infants, children, and adolescents. You may have been told that your child has a “lip tie” or “tongue tie”. During our consultation we will help determine whether the anatomy is normal or abnormal and whether or not there is a functional problem. Following careful examination, we may recommend a laser procedure and will review the risks and benefits in detail.
Lip ties and tongue ties can also be related to airway development.
Tongue Ties in Babies
At our office, we often see newborns with tongue ties as early as just a few days old. Identifying and treating tongue ties early can make a significant difference, especially when it comes to feeding, comfort, and early development. Many parents are referred to us by lactation consultants, midwives, pediatricians, or notice feeding challenges themselves. We take a gentle, thorough approach when assessing newborns, always prioritizing your baby’s well-being and your family’s needs. Early evaluation allows us to work together with you to create the best plan—whether that’s simply monitoring or considering treatment to help improve feeding and tongue function.
Benefits of Laser Procedures for Lip and Tongue Ties
Laser treatment is a modern, gentle, and highly effective option for addressing lip and tongue ties in infants, children, and adults. Compared to traditional surgical methods involving scalpels or scissors, laser procedures offer several key advantages:
1. Minimized Pain and Discomfort
Laser frenectomies are generally less painful both during and after the procedure. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, and anesthesia needs are minimal. For older children and adults, topical or local anesthetic is often sufficient.
2. Reduced Bleeding
The laser cauterizes as it cuts, which significantly reduces bleeding during the procedure. This contributes to a cleaner surgical site and greater patient comfort.
3. Faster Healing and Recovery
Because the laser causes minimal trauma to surrounding tissues, the healing process is typically quicker. Patients often return to normal feeding or speaking within hours to a couple of days, depending on age and case complexity
4. Precision and Control
Laser technology allows for exceptional control and precision. This is particularly important when treating delicate oral tissues, as it helps preserve healthy tissue and ensures functional improvements in tongue or lip mobility
Other Laser Procedures
In addition to lip tie and tongue tie releases, our team uses dental lasers for a variety of soft-tissue treatments that are quick, comfortable, and precise:
• Exposure of Unerupted Teeth
Lasers gently uncover teeth (often canines) that haven’t erupted, helping orthodontists guide them into place with minimal discomfort.
• Gingivectomy
We remove excess gum tissue to improve appearance, uncover teeth, or help with hygiene – all with less bleeding and faster healing.
• Gum Recontouring
Lasers reshape uneven or bulky gums for a more symmetrical, natural-looking smile with no sutures, minimal downtime. This can be done after braces are removed.
• Soft Tissue Biopsies
Lasers allow clean, low-trauma removal of suspicious tissue, making the procedure more comfortable with quicker recovery.
• Mucocele Removal
Painless and precise laser excision of fluid-filled cysts (mucoceles), usually with no stitches needed.
