Understanding Lingual Frenectomy: Options for Lip and Tongue Tie Release

A restricted frenum can cause serious issues with feeding, speech, breathing, and oral development. Whether you’re considering a lingual frenectomy, lip tie surgery, or tongue tie revision, knowing your options helps you make the best decision for long-term health.

What Is a Frenum?

A frenum (or frenulum) is a small fold of tissue that connects mobile parts of the mouth. There are several in the mouth, but the most commonly treated are:

• Lingual frenum: under the tongue
• Labial frenum: inside the upper or lower lip
• Buccal frena: connecting the cheeks to the gums

When a frenum is too short, thick, or tight, it can limit motion. This is called a tongue tie or lip tie, and it may require a procedure to release the tissue for improved oral function.

What Is a Lingual Frenectomy?

A lingual frenectomy or tongue-tie release is the removal or release of the lingual frenum to allow better tongue movement. This simple but precise procedure can improve speech, feeding, and breathing in both children and adults.

It’s often used to treat:

• Speech delays or articulation issues
• Breastfeeding problems in infants
• Trouble with swallowing or chewing
• Sleep apnea or mouth breathing

Improved tongue mobility leads to better oral function and development.

Signs You or Your Child May Need Frenum Treatment

Not all restricted frena need surgical treatment, but when symptoms appear, it’s worth getting evaluated. Look for:

• Trouble lifting or extending the tongue
• Clicking or fatigue while nursing
• Speech delays or mumbling
• Mouth breathing or sleep issues
• Gaps between teeth (especially front teeth)

An evaluation can determine whether a lingual frenectomy, lip-tie surgery, or tongue-tie revision is appropriate.

Lip Tie Surgery: What You Should Know

A lip tie occurs when the upper or lower lip’s frenum is too tight, restricting normal lip movement. Lip tie surgery involves gently releasing the tissue so the lip can move freely and rest properly over the teeth and gums.

Lip tie release may help with:

• Infant latch during breastfeeding
• Gum recession or tension
• Gaps between front teeth
• Improving overall oral development

Both lingual frenectomy and lip tie surgery can be performed during the same visit if needed.

Tongue Tie Revision Explained

Some patients have already undergone a tongue tie release but still struggle with symptoms. A tongue tie revision addresses incomplete or regrown tissue from a previous procedure.

Reasons for a revision include:

• Persistent speech or eating issues
• Scar tissue forming after a first procedure
• Incomplete frenum release
• Lack of improvement after the first treatment

A proper revision requires a skilled provider who understands oral function and anatomy.

Frenectomy Options: Laser vs. Scissors

There are two main techniques used for frenum release procedures: traditional (scalpel or scissors) and laser. Each has its own benefits depending on the patient’s needs and the provider’s expertise.

Scissors or scalpel release:

• Common and effective
• Usually quick, especially in infants
• May require sutures for healing

Laser frenectomy:

• Minimal bleeding
• Reduced pain and swelling
• Lower risk of infection
• Often no stitches needed

Laser treatment is gaining popularity for lingual frenectomy and lip tie surgery, especially in infants and young children.

What to Expect During and After a Frenectomy

The process is generally fast and well-tolerated. In most cases, especially with infants, it takes only a few minutes and can be done in-office.

After the procedure:

• Mild soreness or swelling is normal
• Exercises may be prescribed to prevent reattachment
• Infants may feed more effectively within hours
• Adults or children may benefit from speech therapy

Proper post-op care is key to the success of tongue-tie revision or initial release procedures.

Frenectomy Across the Age Groups

Lip and tongue-tie release procedures are commonly completed in infants and children, but they can be performed at any age.

• Infants: Often diagnosed during feeding difficulties, treated early with rapid recovery
• Children: Typically diagnosed through speech delays or oral posture issues
• Adults: May seek treatment for lifelong issues with speech, jaw pain, or sleep problems

No matter the age, releasing a restrictive frenum can have life-changing effects on oral function and quality of life.

Choose the Right Provider

Frenum releases require precise diagnosis and skilled execution. While many dentists can provide the service, it is best to choose a provider who:

• Specializes in oral anatomy and function
• Has experience with frenum releases in both infants and adults
• Offers post-op care guidance or therapy referrals
• Uses appropriate tools (laser or traditional) based on your needs

When performed by an experienced provider, lingual frenectomy, lip tie surgery, and tongue tie revision are safe, effective, and transformative procedures.

Don’t Ignore the Symptoms

Untreated tongue and lip ties can affect everything from speech to facial development to sleep quality. If you or your child have symptoms of a restricted frenum, schedule an evaluation. The earlier it is addressed, the better the outcome.

The information provided on this website, including text, graphics, images, and other materials, is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.