Most parents don’t expect to hear terms like “frenectomy” during their child’s early dental visits. But for some children, a small band of tissue in the mouth—called a frenum—can lead to feeding, speech, or dental issues if it’s too tight or restrictive.
In recent years, laser frenectomy has become a safe, effective solution to help correct these problems. If you’re wondering whether your child might benefit from this treatment, this guide will walk you through the signs to look for and how this procedure works.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that involves releasing a tight frenum—the small strip of tissue that connects parts of the mouth. In children, this typically means the lingual frenum (under the tongue) or the labial frenum (between the upper lip and gums).
When these tissues are unusually short, thick, or tight, they can restrict movement and lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, or even dental alignment.
Laser technology allows dentists to perform this procedure with greater precision and minimal discomfort, making it a popular option for children who need treatment.
5 Signs Your Child May Need a Laser Frenectomy
Not all children need a frenectomy, but there are clear signs that may point to a restriction. These symptoms often show up early—sometimes even in infancy—or become more noticeable as a child starts to talk or eat solid foods.
Here are five common indicators that may warrant a closer look:
1. Trouble Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
One of the earliest signs of a tongue-tie or lip-tie is difficulty with feeding. Babies may struggle to latch, make clicking noises while nursing, or seem frustrated during feedings. They may also feed for long periods without gaining weight efficiently, which can be exhausting for both the baby and parent.
2. Speech Delays or Difficulty Pronouncing Certain Sounds
As children grow, a restricted tongue or lip can interfere with proper speech development. Parents may notice difficulty with sounds that require tongue mobility, like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r.” A pediatric dentist can evaluate whether a physical restriction is contributing to these challenges.
3. Mouth Breathing and Snoring
Tight oral tissues can impact a child’s ability to close their lips fully or rest their tongue properly within the mouth. This may contribute to mouth breathing, snoring, or restless sleep—especially in toddlers and young children.
4. Difficulty with Solid Foods
Toddlers who have trouble chewing or who gag frequently when transitioning to solids may be dealing with limited tongue movement. This restriction can make it harder to move food around the mouth efficiently, leading to picky eating or feeding delays.
5. A Visible Tie Under the Tongue or Upper Lip
Sometimes, the physical signs are visible to the naked eye. A child might have a thick band of tissue under the tongue that looks tight when they try to lift it. Others may have a band connecting the upper lip to the gumline that causes a gap between the front teeth or makes brushing uncomfortable.
How a Laser Frenectomy Works
Laser frenectomies are safe, fast, and typically require little to no recovery time. The procedure uses a soft-tissue laser to gently release the tissue, reducing the need for stitches and minimizing bleeding.
For infants and toddlers, the treatment can often be completed in just a few minutes. Most children are able to feed or eat right away and experience minimal discomfort. Older children may be given local anesthesia, but the recovery is still relatively quick.
Unlike traditional surgical methods, laser technology makes the process more comfortable and reduces the risk of infection or complications.
When to Talk to a Dental Professional
If you’re noticing any of the signs listed above, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation. A pediatric dentist will examine your child’s oral anatomy and determine whether a frenectomy is appropriate or if alternative therapies—like speech or feeding therapy—may be recommended first.
Every child is different, and treatment decisions should always be based on their unique needs and development. The goal is to improve function in a way that supports comfort, growth, and overall oral health.
The Takeaway
A laser frenectomy can be a simple but transformative solution for children dealing with restricted tongue or lip movement. Whether your child is struggling with feeding, speech, or general oral function, early evaluation and gentle treatment can help resolve the issue before it leads to more serious complications.
Concerned Your Child Might Need a Frenectomy?
If you’re near Canton, GA and have questions about your child’s feeding, speech, or oral development, Canton’s Kids Dentistry offers gentle evaluations and laser treatments in a child-friendly setting.
Call today to request an appointment and learn more about how a laser frenectomy could help your child thrive.