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Tongue Tie and Lip Tie Treatment (Frenectomy)
If your child is struggling with feeding, speech development, or oral function, a tongue tie or lip tie may be the cause. Our team provides gentle, modern frenectomy treatment designed to improve function while keeping your child comfortable and safe.
What is a Tongue Tie or Lip Tie?
Inside the mouth, small bands of tissue called frenula help connect the tongue and lips to the surrounding structures. When these tissues are too tight or restrictive, they can limit normal movement.
A tongue tie may affect how the tongue moves, which can impact feeding, speech development, and oral function. A lip tie may affect how the upper lip moves and, in some cases, can contribute to feeding challenges or spacing between the front teeth.
Not every tie requires treatment. That is why a full clinical evaluation is always performed before any procedure is recommended.
How the Procedure Works
If treatment is recommended, the procedure is typically very quick and is often completed in just a few minutes.
At our office, frenectomies are performed using modern dental laser technology. Laser treatment allows for a highly precise and gentle approach that helps reduce bleeding, improves comfort during the procedure, and supports faster healing compared to traditional techniques.
Depending on your child’s needs, treatment may involve releasing the tissue under the tongue (lingual frenectomy) or releasing the tissue connecting the upper lip (labial frenectomy).
Most children tolerate the procedure very well and are able to return to normal activities shortly after treatment.
When Should You Consider an Evaluation?
Some children with tongue tie or lip tie may experience feeding challenges, difficulty staying latched during breastfeeding or bottle feeding, or clicking sounds while feeding. In some cases, families may notice slower weight gain, increased gassiness during feeding, or reflux-like symptoms.
As children grow, tongue mobility restrictions may sometimes contribute to speech concerns or difficulty moving the tongue normally. Lip ties may occasionally contribute to spacing between the front teeth.
Because every child is unique, our team focuses on careful evaluation and personalized recommendations based on your child’s specific needs.
Meet Dr. Katherine Strong
Dr. Katie Strong is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. A Rochester native, she graduated from Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester.
She earned her dental degree from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, graduating as valedictorian of her dental class, reflecting her strong commitment to clinical excellence and patient care.
Dr. Strong completed two additional years of specialized pediatric dental training at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC, where she received advanced training in pediatric restorative and preventive dentistry, behavior management, trauma care, interceptive orthodontics, and treatment of children with special healthcare needs.
She received the Richard C. Pugh Award after scoring in the top 3% of pediatric dentists nationwide on the pediatric dental board certification qualifying exam.
Dr. Strong is an active member of multiple professional organizations and serves as a Board Director for the Monroe County Dental Society. She is also a Clinical Instructor at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health and helps provide dental care to children throughout Rochester through the SMILEmobile outreach program.
As someone who grew up in Rochester, Dr. Strong is deeply committed to caring for families in the community and helping children develop healthy smiles in a positive, supportive environment.
What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery after a laser frenectomy is typically very fast. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and heal quickly. Many families notice improvements in feeding or oral function shortly after treatment.
Our team provides detailed after-care guidance and remains available if you have any questions during the healing process.
As children grow, tongue mobility restrictions may sometimes contribute to speech concerns or difficulty moving the tongue normally. Lip ties may occasionally contribute to spacing between the front teeth.
Because every child is unique, our team focuses on careful evaluation and personalized recommendations based on your child’s specific needs.
Schedule Your Child’s Evaluation
If you think your child may have a tongue tie or lip tie, early evaluation can make a meaningful difference in feeding, comfort, and development.
Call our office today, schedule online, or contact our team with any questions.
