A Modern Tongue Tie Treatment and Lingual Frenulum Release
Frenotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat tongue tie (ankyloglossia) by releasing the restricted lingual frenulum—the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This quick procedure significantly improves tongue mobility and function for patients of all ages.
At Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide expert frenotomy services for infants, children, and adults experiencing functional limitations due to tongue tie in Denton, TX, and surrounding communities. To learn more about whether frenotomy is right for you, contact our Denton, TX, dental practice today by calling (940) 566-4888 to schedule your appointment.
What is a Frenotomy?
A frenotomy (also called a lingual frenotomy or lingual frenectomy) is a straightforward procedure that involves making a small cut in the lingual frenulum to allow greater tongue movement. Our dentists typically perform this procedure using sterile scissors or advanced laser technology. For infants, the procedure can often be completed without anesthesia, while local anesthesia ensures comfort for older children and adults.
When Should You Consider Frenotomy Treatment?
Frenotomy is recommended when significant tongue tie causes functional issues that impact daily life, including:
- Breastfeeding difficulties in infants (poor latch, extended feeding sessions, difficulty gaining weight)
- Speech difficulties in children or adults (trouble pronouncing certain sounds, speech articulation problems)
- Dental health concerns (gaps between teeth, periodontal disease, gum recession)
- Feeding difficulties or swallowing problems
- Mouth breathing issues that may affect overall health
- Speech development delays in children
Dr. Patrick Ruehle and Dr. Erika Eide carefully evaluate each patient’s unique needs during a physical exam to determine if a frenotomy is the optimal treatment option. Our dental practice welcomes patients from throughout Denton County, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX.
The Frenotomy Procedure
Before the Procedure
Our dental team may coordinate with lactation consultants or speech-language pathologists to assess the various aspects of your or your child’s condition. We’ll explain the procedure and answer any questions. For infants, typically no anesthesia is needed; older children and adults may receive local anesthesia
During the Frenotomy
- Preparation: The area around the lingual frenulum is cleaned and prepped
- The procedure performed: Using sterile scissors or laser technology, the doctor makes a small cut in the frenulum to release the restriction
- Minimal bleeding: Typically only a drop of blood, if any
- Quick completion: The entire process takes just a few minutes
After Your Frenotomy
- Immediate results: Infants can usually breastfeed right after the procedure, encouraging proper tongue movement
- Recovery guidance: Older children and adults receive specific aftercare instructions
- Follow-up plan: We schedule appropriate check-ups to monitor healing and progress
Benefits of Modern Frenotomy Treatment
Here are some of the benefits of undergoing frenotomy treatment:
- Immediate improvement in tongue mobility and function
- Enhanced breastfeeding success and infant’s ability to feed properly
- Improved speech articulation and child’s ability to pronounce sounds clearly
- Prevention of dental issues and periodontal disease
- Minimal discomfort with rapid recovery time
- Low risk of complications when performed by experienced providers
Frenotomy Aftercare for Optimal Recovery
For Infants and Babies:
- Breastfeed immediately following the procedure to comfort your newborn and promote proper tongue movement
- Perform gentle tongue exercises as recommended by our healthcare provider or lactation consultant
- Monitor the wound for signs of infection, including unusual redness or swelling
- Track improvements in feeding and weight gain
For Older Children and Adults:
- Follow prescribed speech therapy or tongue exercises to improve strength and mobility
- Temporarily avoid eating spicy or acidic foods that might irritate the healing tissue
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene while being gentle around the treated area
- Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing
Frequently Asked Questions
For infants, the procedure causes minimal discomfort—often described as a brief pinch. Older children and adults receive local anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the quick procedure.
Many patients experience immediate benefits. Infants often show improved breastfeeding within the first feeding after the frenotomy procedure. For speech difficulties or more complex issues, noticeable improvements may develop over weeks or months with proper therapy and exercises.
Frenotomy is considered a low-risk procedure. Potential complications such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding tissue or saliva ducts are extremely rare when performed by experienced providers.
While a simple frenotomy addresses most cases of tongue tie, some patients with severe restrictions may require a more extensive procedure. Our doctors will discuss all appropriate treatment options during your consultation.
Get Frenotomy Services in Denton, TX
If you or your child is experiencing challenges due to tongue tie or lip tie, the experienced team at Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can help. Dr. Patrick Ruehle and Dr. Erika Eide provide comprehensive care for patients with tongue ties, offering both diagnosis and treatment in our comfortable Denton office.
We welcome patients from throughout Denton County, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX. Call (940) 566-4888 today to schedule your tongue tie consultation and take the first step toward improved tongue function and overall wellbeing!