Tongue Tie & Lip Releasing Frenectomy in Lehi, UT
A frenectomy is a simple oral procedure that releases a restrictive band of tissue in the mouth, improving feeding, speech, and oral comfort. At Alpine Kids Dentistry, our pediatric dentist performs gentle frenectomies to address tongue ties and lip ties in children of all ages.
A frenum is a muscular attachment between two tissues found inside the cheeks and lips and between the gums and tongue. When a frenum is too tight or restrictive, it can cause problems with feeding, speech, and tooth alignment. At our Lehi, UT office, we evaluate each child carefully to determine whether a frenectomy will help.
Labial (Lip) Frenectomy
The labial frenum connects the inside of the upper lip to the gums between the two upper front teeth. When too prominent, it can create a large gap between the front teeth or pull the gums away from the bone. Dentists often wait for the permanent front teeth to erupt before treating, since the gap may close naturally, but a labial frenectomy may be recommended when it causes spacing, gum recession, or discomfort. Benefits include reduced oral discomfort, improved appearance by closing the front-tooth gap, fewer gum defects where food and plaque collect, and better breastfeeding for newborns.
Lingual (Tongue) Frenectomy
The lingual frenum connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When it extends too far toward the tip of the tongue, it can restrict movement and interfere with eating and speaking, a condition commonly called “tongue tied.” A lingual frenectomy is performed when this restriction affects function. Benefits include improved breastfeeding for newborns who struggle to latch, clearer speech and communication, and a better appetite because the child can eat more comfortably.
If you have questions about whether your child would benefit from a frenectomy, our pediatric dentist will help you understand the procedure and what to expect. Request an appointment or call 801-377-5437.
Frenectomy FAQs
What is a frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple procedure that releases a tight or restrictive band of tissue (a frenum) in the mouth, improving feeding, speech, and oral comfort.
What is the difference between a tongue tie and a lip tie?
A tongue tie involves the lingual frenum under the tongue, while a lip tie involves the labial frenum connecting the upper lip to the gums. Both can be released with a frenectomy.
How do I know if my child has a tongue or lip tie?
Signs include difficulty breastfeeding, trouble with speech or eating, a gap between the upper front teeth, or limited tongue movement. We can evaluate your child during an exam.
Is a frenectomy painful for my child?
The procedure is quick and well tolerated. We take steps to keep your child comfortable, and any mild soreness afterward typically resolves quickly.
Can a frenectomy help with breastfeeding?
Yes. Releasing a restrictive frenum can improve a newborn’s ability to latch and feed effectively, which is a common reason the procedure is performed in infants.
When should a lip frenectomy be done?
Dentists often wait for the permanent front teeth to erupt before treating a lip tie, since the gap may close naturally, but treatment may be recommended sooner if it causes discomfort.
Will a frenectomy improve my child’s speech?
Releasing a restrictive lingual frenum can improve tongue mobility, which may support clearer speech and easier eating in children affected by a tongue tie.