Laser Frenectomy for Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie in Howell, MI
LifeSmiles offers laser frenectomy for tongue-tie and lip-tie. If your baby or child is struggling with feeding, speech, or tongue mobility, we're here to help you understand your options with clear answers and zero pressure.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the upper lip to the gum. When it is too tight or short, it can limit movement. A frenectomy releases the frenulum so the tongue or lip can move more freely.
A lingual frenectomy releases a tongue-tie.
A labial frenectomy releases a lip-tie.
Why a Laser Makes Sense for Little Mouths
If your baby is already struggling to feed, or your toddler is nervous, the last thing you want is a long or frightening procedure. A laser lets us release the tie precisely, with very little bleeding, in less than a minute. For most families that means:
No needles and no anesthesia, which matters most for infants and toddlers
A short procedure, usually less than a minute
Minimal bleeding and no stitches, so there is less for your child to feel afterward
Virtually no pain for most children, with little swelling and a lower risk of infection
Smooth healing and a shorter recovery
A precise release, even in a very small mouth
Dr. Gail has extensive experience performing safe and effective frenectomies, and infant oral health and the release of tethered oral tissues are among her professional interests.
Laser Frenectomy FAQ
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Common signs in babies include trouble latching, clicking sounds during feeding, long feedings, slow weight gain, and pain for the nursing parent. Only a hands-on exam can confirm a tongue-tie, so schedule an evaluation if you have concerns.
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It is virtually painless for most children. The procedure usually takes less than a minute, and your child will typically have only minimal discomfort or swelling afterward.
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There is no single best age. Babies with feeding trouble can be evaluated in the first weeks of life, and toddlers and older children can be treated when speech, eating, or tongue movement is affected. Dr. Gail will recommend timing after an exam.
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No. Our laser frenectomy doesn't require anesthesia, which is especially helpful for infants and toddlers.
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Recovery is usually quick, with minimal swelling and discomfort. You'll receive aftercare instructions for your child's age, which may include gentle stretching exercises to keep the area from tightening as it heals.
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Tongue-tie can limit tongue movement for some children, which may affect certain speech sounds. Speech delays have many causes, so we recommend an evaluation by both a speech-language pathologist and our team to see whether a tie is playing a role.
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Coverage varies by plan. Contact our office with your insurance information and we'll help you understand what to expect before the visit.
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We use a CO2 soft-tissue laser, which is designed for precise work on the delicate tissue under the tongue and lip. Because it seals the tissue as it works, there is very little bleeding, and no stitches are needed. -
A traditional frenectomy uses a scalpel or scissors and sometimes stitches. A laser frenectomy is quicker, typically involves less bleeding and swelling, lowers the risk of infection, and needs no stitches.
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A tie can tighten again as the area heals, which is why aftercare and follow-up matter. Following the instructions we give you helps lower that chance.
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Yes. We are glad to coordinate with your child's pediatrician and lactation consultant so everyone is working toward the same goal. For speech therapy and myofunctional therapy, we work with AtoZ Speech Therapy in Brighton, and we can help connect you when therapy would support your child's feeding or speech after a release.
Wondering If Your Child Has a Tie?
Schedule an evaluation. We'll tell you plainly whether we think a frenectomy would help.