Laser Dentistry & Frenectomy in Round Rock

What Is a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie?

A tongue-tie or lip-tie occurs when oral tissues restrict normal movement of the tongue or lips. In some children, these restrictions may affect feeding, oral function, speech, oral hygiene, or development.

Not every tongue-tie requires treatment. Our providers carefully evaluate both anatomy and function before making recommendations.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from an Evaluation

For infants:

• Difficulty latching
• Painful nursing
• Poor milk transfer
• Slow weight gain
• Clicking sounds during feeding
• Excessive air intake
• Prolonged feeding sessions

For older children:

• Speech concerns
• Limited tongue mobility
• Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene
• Challenges licking, swallowing, or eating certain food
• Orthodontic concerns, including management of midline spacing (diastema) and treatment planning for impacted or unerupted teeth

A frenectomy is a minimally invasive laser procedure that removes or modifies tight bands of oral tissue that cause constrictions or discomfort. We offer this here in our Austin Children's Dentistry in Round Rock. The treatment is commonly used as a tongue-tie fix in newborns. However, kids and adults can also benefit from this procedure if they struggle with eating or speaking because rough bands were not treated in early life.

A laser frenectomy doesn't involve cutting. This means a minimally invasive procedure with faster healing, less bleeding, and very little tissue trauma. The recovery period is also generally very smooth and painless.

What to Expect With a Frenectomy

During this procedure, a laser helps to free up tissue to reduce the tightness and restriction that can be causing tongue-tie or speech concerns. There is no downtime needed. Your dentist may recommend some postoperative oral stretching exercises to help reduce the risk of tissue reattaching following treatment.

We'd love to give you more information about what you can expect from a frenectomy if you're considering this treatment for your child. Contact our dental office today to book your consultation.