Helping Your Child Thrive from Day One

At ABC Dentistry for Children, we understand how important early feeding, breathing, and speech development are to your child’s well-being. If your baby or child is experiencing difficulty nursing, speaking, eating, or sleeping, they may have a tongue or lip restriction.

What is a tongue tie or lip tie?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is when the band of tissue under the tongue is too tight, limiting movement. A lip tie occurs when the lip is restricted by a tight piece of tissue.

These restrictions can cause difficulty with breastfeeding, weight gain, eating, speech, breathing, cavities, and overall quality of life.

When left untreated in childhood, tongue and lip ties can lead to long-term issues that persist into adulthood, such as headaches, neck and shoulder tension, sleep disturbances, and speech difficulties.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Schedule a consultation today—let’s help your child thrive!

Common Signs of a Tongue Tie or Lip Tie

In Infants:

  • Trouble latching during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
  • Gassy, fussy feeding sessions
  • Reflux or symptoms of colic
  • Poor weight gain
  • Clicking or smacking sounds while nursing
  • Milk leaking from the corners of the mouth
  • Pacifier won’t stay in
  • Hiccups
  • Painful nursing

In Toddlers and Children:

  • Speech delays or difficulty making certain sounds
  • Mumbling or speaking softly or stuttering
  • Picky eating/ slow eating/ packing foods in the cheeks
  • Strong gag reflex/ choking on food and drinks
  • Mouth breathing
  • Snoring or poor sleep
  • Grinding teeth
  • Gaps between teeth or gum recession

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Schedule a consultation today—let’s help your child thrive!

Comfort-Focused Care with Advanced Laser Technology

We use a state-of-the-art CO2 dental laser (The Light Scalpel) to perform tongue and lip tie releases (also known as frenectomies). This technology allows us to:

  • Ensures a more comfortable experience for your child
  • Involves little to no bleeding
  • Supports quicker healing and recovery
  • Sedation may or may not be required depending on various factors

The procedure is safe, fast and performed right here in our office, even for infants.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Schedule a consultation today—let’s help your child thrive!

Our Process

  • Consultation/Assessment : A thorough evaluation to determine the presence and impact of the tongue and/or lip restriction.
  • Treatment: The laser gently releases the tight tissue with minimal
  • Aftercare Support: We provide detailed instructions and support to ensure optimal healing and results.
  • Collaboration: We may recommend follow-up care with a lactation consultant, speech therapist, Oral Myofacial therapist, or bodyworker for best results.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Schedule a consultation today—let’s help your child thrive!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it hurt my baby?

The laser is very gentle, and many babies are calm and able to feed right after the procedure.

Do we need anesthesia?

For infants and many children, we use only a topical numbing gel, and some local anesthesia. Some kiddos may need nitrous oxide gas or oral sedation to help with the anxiety. No stitches or general anesthesia are required.  If this is needed, it is included in the fee for the procedure. There won’t be any “extra” or “surprise” fees over the ones discussed at your appointment.

How soon will I see improvement?

Many families are surprised by how quickly their child recovers. Most babies and children are able to feed, eat, or play comfortably shortly after leaving our office. Some may experience mild fussiness or swelling, which typically resolves within a day or two.

You may notice positive changes soon after the procedure—such as improved latch during breastfeeding, clearer speech, or more restful sleep. In some cases, the benefits unfold gradually over time, especially when supported by follow-up care like oral exercises, bodywork, or therapy.

We’ll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and are always here to answer your questions as your child heals. Our goal is to support not just the procedure, but your child’s long-term comfort and development.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Schedule a consultation today—let’s help your child thrive!

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