CO2 laser lip and tongue tie treatment
CO2 laser lip and tongue tie treatment
Lip and Tongue Laser Frenectomy
A lip or tongue frenectomy is a procedure that releases a tight band of tissue, called the frenum, that may restrict the movement of the tongue or upper lip. When this tissue is too tight—a condition often referred to as a "tongue-tie" or "lip-tie"—it can interfere with feeding, speech, oral hygiene, dental development, and normal oral function.
At our practice, we use advanced dental laser technology to perform these procedures with precision and comfort. Laser treatment is minimally invasive and offers many advantages, including less bleeding, reduced swelling, minimal discomfort, and faster healing compared with traditional techniques.
When Is a Frenectomy Recommended?
A laser frenectomy may be recommended for children who experience:
Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Speech concerns related to restricted tongue movement
Challenges with chewing or swallowing
Mouth breathing or other oral function concerns
Difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene
Gaps between the upper front teeth caused by a tight lip frenum
Orthodontic or myofunctional concerns related to restricted oral tissues
What to Expect
The procedure is typically quick and performed in our office. Most children tolerate laser treatment very well, and many return to normal activities the same day. We provide detailed instructions for stretching exercises and aftercare to support proper healing and help prevent the tissue from reattaching.
Myofunctional Therapy
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a series of simple, personalized exercises that help children develop healthy breathing, swallowing, chewing, and tongue habits. The therapy focuses on strengthening and retraining the muscles of the mouth, tongue, lips, and face to support proper oral function and healthy growth.
Poor oral habits—such as mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, or incorrect tongue posture—can affect a child's dental development, speech, sleep, and overall health. Myofunctional therapy helps address these issues by teaching children how to use their oral muscles correctly.
Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
Encourages proper tongue and lip posture
Promotes nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing
Supports healthy jaw and facial development
Helps improve swallowing patterns
May reduce orthodontic relapse after braces
Can complement treatment for speech, airway, and sleep concerns
Who Can Benefit?
Myofunctional therapy may be recommended for children who:
Breathe through their mouth
Have tongue thrust or incorrect swallowing patterns
Experience prolonged thumb or pacifier habits
Have speech concerns related to oral muscle function
Are undergoing orthodontic treatment
Have airway or sleep-related concerns
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