Do These Struggles Sound Familiar?
If any of this describes your daily experience, there may be a simple explanation. A short evaluation can give you answers.
What Waiting Actually Costs
Compensation Habits Set In
The tongue learns workarounds that become harder to unlearn as months pass.
Speech Patterns Become Fixed
Sounds formed incorrectly for years take longer to correct with therapy later.
Feeding Difficulties Continue
Every week of restricted movement means continued frustration during feeding or meals.
Gum Recession Progresses
A tight lip attachment can pull tissue away from teeth over time.
Therapy Takes Longer
Speech or feeding therapy works faster when restriction is released first.
Confidence Quietly Erodes
Children and adults start avoiding situations where speaking feels difficult.
Releasing restriction early makes every step afterward simpler and faster.
Understanding Tongue Ties and Frenectomy Treatment
A frenum is the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. When that band is unusually short or tight, it limits how far the tongue or lip can move, a condition commonly called a tongue tie or lip tie. A frenectomy releases that tissue so movement is no longer restricted. The treatment is brief, and the tissue involved is thin and heals quickly.
We use a soft-tissue laser at Hite Family Dentistry, which allows us to release the frenum precisely with minimal bleeding and typically without sutures. Families coming to us for frenectomies in Edwardsville also benefit from our cone beam 3D imaging and digital records, which help us document anatomy clearly and coordinate care with lactation consultants, speech therapists, and pediatricians when needed.
Treatment typically takes only a few minutes
Soft-tissue laser replaces traditional scalpel technique
Performed on infants, children, and adults
Transformations That Last
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Benefits of Frenectomy Treatment
See What's Possible for Your Smile
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Who Benefits Most From a Frenectomy
Have an infant who struggles to latch or feed comfortably
Have been referred by a lactation consultant or pediatrician
Are working with a speech therapist on specific sounds
Notice gum tissue pulling away from the lower front teeth
Want easier eating and speaking without constant compensation
Not Sure If It Applies?
What to Expect During Your Frenectomy Visit
Evaluation
We start by examining how the tongue or lip moves and how that movement affects feeding, speech, or gum health. Digital records and intraoral scanning let us document the restriction clearly and share findings with your lactation consultant, speech therapist, or physician. You leave this visit knowing exactly what is happening and whether treatment makes sense.
Comfort Preparation
Before anything else, we make sure the area is completely numb using a topical gel followed by gentle local anesthetic when appropriate. For older children and adults who feel anxious, nitrous oxide is available. Our team explains each step as we go, so nothing comes as a surprise and you stay relaxed throughout.
Laser Release
The soft-tissue laser releases the restricted band in a matter of seconds. Because the laser seals tissue as it works, bleeding is minimal and sutures are usually unnecessary. Most patients feel only slight pressure. When it is over, you will notice the tongue or lip moving in a range it could not reach before.
Stretches and Follow-Up
We show you the simple stretching movements that keep tissue from reattaching as it heals, and we practice them together before you leave. You receive written instructions and direct access to our team with questions. A brief follow-up confirms healing is on track and movement is holding.
Ready to Move Freely Again?
Healing After Your Frenectomy
First 24-48 Hours
Mild soreness at the release site is normal and usually responds well to over-the-counter pain relief. Cool foods and liquids feel good during this window. Infants often return to feeding immediately, and older patients typically resume regular activity the same day.
First Week
The site develops a white or yellow patch as it heals, which is expected rather than a sign of infection. Gentle stretches continue several times daily to maintain the new range of movement. Most patients find soreness fading noticeably by the third or fourth day.
Questions About Healing? We are here to help
Payment Flexibility That Eases Treatment Planning
Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.
Frenectomy FAQs
Does a frenectomy hurt?
How long does the appointment take?
Is my baby too young for this?
Will the tissue grow back?
Are stitches required?
What if speech therapy is already underway?
Can adults have this done?
Is sedation available?
How soon will we notice a difference?
Does insurance cover a frenectomy?
Still Have Questions?
