What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a procedure performed to correct a tongue-tie or lip-tie. Dr. Schilndler first began performing frenectomies when she found out her two-year-old son had a severe tongue-tie that affected his breastfeeding, speech, and his ability to chew food. When she brought him to a myofunctional therapist, he was diagnosed with a severe tongue-tie. After experiencing firsthand the struggles caused by a tie, and then the drastic positive impact of releasing the tie, Dr. Schindler knew that she wanted to provide this service for mothers and infants herself. A tongue-tie or lip-tie can interfere with an infant's ability to breastfeed, speak, and eat effectively, and may lead to other developmental complications when left untreated. Dr. Schindler uses an advanced Lightscalpel CO2 laser to release the tie, the small piece of tissue connecting the tongue or lip to the mouth, with little to no pain or discomfort.
Improved Feeding & Nutrition
Correcting a tongue-tie or lip-tie can significantly enhance an infant's ability to breastfeed effectively and receive proper nutrition.
Improved Speech
Frenectomies can aid in the development of clearer speech by allowing for a full range of tongue movements.
Improved Oral health & Comfort
The procedure improves facial bone growth and development, preventing issues like gap teeth and gum recession, ensuring better oral health and comfort for the child.
The Laser Frenectomy Treatment Process
Dr. Schindler strongly believe in collaborative care for frenectomies, which is why our gentle laser frenectomy procedure includes comprehensive pre and post-op care with our network of specialists, including cranial sacral therapy, lactation support, and myofunctional therapy.
Consultation & Treatment Planning
Each frenectomy begins with a detailed assessment to determine the necessity of the procedure for your child.
The Process
Using our precise CO2 LightScalpel laser, the tie is quickly and painlessly released, often with little to no bleeding. The use of a laser is the most gentle way to release a tongue-tie or lip-tie, so it generally doesn’t sedation and can be completed in minutes. To ensure the comfort of our little patients, Dr.Schindler will apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment site before performing the procedure.
Aftercare & Continued Treatment
Dr. Schindler will provide you with complete at-home aftercare steps and recommendations for continued treatment with our network of specialists. Post-procedure care will include exercises, cranial sacral therapy, and lactation support to ensure optimal healing and function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs your infant might need a frenectomy include difficulty breastfeeding, such as clicking, drooling, popping off the breast, flat nipples, and/or a shallow latch, as well as a noticeable tightness in the lip or tongue and limited tongue mobility.
Recovery from a frenectomy is typically swift, with most infants resuming normal feeding immediately after the procedure.
The Lightscalpel CO2 laser technique minimizes discomfort, and most infants tolerate the procedure well without the need for anesthesia.
Tongue-tie and lip-tie are conditions where the frenulum, the connective tissue in the mouth, restricts movement, which can impact feeding and speech.