What Is a Laser Frenectomy and How Does It Work?

McMullin Dental Care offers laser frenectomies in Monroe, Michigan, to remove the frenum, a small band of tissue that causes a lip or tongue tie (ankyloglossia). Dr. Maria McMullin can perform this procedure on the upper lip (labial frenum) or under the tongue (lingual frenum). Our laser frenectomies are quick, minimally invasive, and lead to faster recovery.

How can I tell my child has a lip/tongue tie?

A lip or tongue-tie occurs when the frenum is too short or thick, restricting the tongue or lip’s movement. Tongue-ties are common in children and usually cause the following symptoms.

  • Struggling with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
  • Poor weight gain
  • Milk leaking from the corner of the mouths
  • The tongue tip may be notched or heart-shaped 
  • The tongue cannot extend beyond the lips 
  • Clicking sound while feeding 
  • Tooth decay because of poor oral hygiene
  • Difficulty playing wind instruments
  • Nipple pain or bruising for the nursing mother
  • Older children may have a gap between the front teeth

What does a frenectomy involve?

A frenectomy or tongue-tie release is a minor procedure that involves severing the frenum to improve the tongue or lip’s mobility. Traditionally, this procedure involves using a scalpel or scissors to cut the restrictive soft tissue. While the traditional method works, it’s invasive and prolongs recovery.

At McMullin Dental Care, we use laser technology to administer frenectomies. Instead of scalpels and sutures, the dentist uses light energy to sever the frenum, making the procedure quick and less traumatic.

What are the benefits of laser frenectomies?

Laser frenectomies offer several benefits, including:

  • Precision: The laser only targets the frenum, leaving healthy tissues intact.
  • Speed: It only takes a few minutes to complete the procedure.
  • Minimally invasive: There is no need for incisions or sutures. There is minimal bleeding and post-treatment discomfort.
  • Faster healing: The laser stimulates the body’s healing mechanism. The recovery time is typically shorter than traditional surgery.
  • Reduced infection risk: The laser sterilizes the area as it cuts, lowering the chance of complications during the healing process.

What issues can a frenectomy resolve?

A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure. It can address various functional issues, significantly improving quality of life.

  • Improved speech: A tight frenum can restrict tongue movement, making it difficult to pronounce certain sounds. After a frenectomy, the tongue gains its full range of motion, which aids in better articulation.
  • Better feeding: A frenectomy improves breastfeeding for tongue-tied babies who struggle to latch. It also reduces maternal discomfort during nursing.
  • Enhanced breathing: A restrictive frenum can sometimes cause mouth breathing. A frenectomy can improve tongue positioning, encouraging nasal breathing. A frenectomy also leads to a healthy airway, reducing the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
  • Better oral health: A tongue/lip-tie release promotes effective brushing and flossing, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Do you need a laser frenectomy near Monroe?

McMullin Dental Care provides exceptional dentistry to patients of all ages. If you or your child needs a laser frenectomy, call (734) 868-5115 and schedule an appointment with our dental team.