Frenectomy Care
Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Tongue and Lip Tie Care For Infants, Kids, and Adults
Tongue and lip ties can show up in so many ways: painful feeding, restless sleep, speech delays, or even jaw and posture problems later in life.
For some families, the signs are obvious. For others, they’ve been missed for years.
At Developmental Dentistry, we don’t rush to release. We study how the restriction affects movement, feeding, growth or function.
Infant Frenectomy Care
When Feeding Feels Too Hard
Feeding challenges are often the first sign that something isn’t working well.
Babies may struggle to latch, tire quickly while nursing, or have difficulty gaining weight. Parents may experience pain, frustration, or the sense that something just isn’t right.
Frenectomy Care for Infants
Dr. Monica Kim
Our team is led by a lactation consultant and our surgical providers are trained in airway and TMJ health.
Our team is led by a lactation consultant and our surgical providers are trained in airway and TMJ health.
We Help With:
- Painful or shallow latch
- Poor weight gain
- Clicking or slipping off the breast
- Excessive gas, reflux, or fussiness
- Sleep disruption
- Nipple pain or damage for mom
Here Is How They Approach Treating Infants:
- Evaluate latch, oral function, and soft tissue mobility
- Coordinate care with your feeding team (IBCLC, bodyworker, etc.)
- Use laser therapy for gentle, precise releases
- Provide clear guidance for post-release healing and reintegration
We work closely with parents to ensure readiness and understanding before any release.
No rush. No pressure. Just thoughtful, evidence-based care.
The Process Leading Up to a Tongue Tie Release
Dr. Monica Kim
Pediatric Frenectomy Care
As children grow, restricted oral tissues may show up in different ways including speech difficulties, sleep issues, or challenges with focus and behavior.
Tongue ties rarely resolve on their own. That’s why we take a functional, developmental lens when evaluating.
- As children grow, restricted oral tissues may show up in different ways including speech difficulties, sleep issues, or challenges with focus and behavior.
- Tongue ties rarely resolve on their own. That’s why we take a functional, developmental lens when evaluating.
Treatment plans may include:
- Myofunctional therapy before and after release
Coordination with speech therapists, ENTs, or orthodontists - Laser frenectomy when function is compromised
We help families understand what’s causing the problem and what steps will support the best long-term outcome.
What Are the Signs a Tongue Tie Release Is Needed?
Dr. Monica Kim
Adult Frenectomy Care
Finding Relief After Years of Compensation
Many adults with tongue or lip ties have spent decades adapting to the tie(s). From mouth breathing to clenching, jaw tension and postural shifts symptoms may show up as TMJ pain, fatigue, speech strain, or even chronic headaches.
No two adults are alike. Some need release, others don’t. We take the time to assess and personalize every plan.
Frenectomy Care for Adults
Dr. Monica Kim
Common adult symptoms:
- Chronic jaw pain or tension
- Difficulty with certain speech sounds
- Feeling “tight” or restricted in the floor of the mouth
- Ongoing TMJ dysfunction despite other treatment
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive functional exam
- Myofunctional therapy before and after release
- Advanced laser surgery for minimal discomfort and optimal healing
- Post-op follow-up and care coordination
Frenectomy Care FAQs
How do dentists grade tongue ties?
Dr. Monica Kim
How can I help my child prepare for a procedure?
Dr. Monica Kim
Benefits of the technology we use for tongue ties
Dr. Monica Kim
What is BabyLase?
Dr. Monica Kim
What to expect after a tongue tie release?
Dr. Monica Kim
What is the Rebound Effect?
Dr. Monica Kim
What is a tongue tie revision?
Dr. Monica Kim
Why Laser? Why Here?
Our laser technology allows for highly precise, minimally invasive releases with less bleeding, faster healing, and minimal scar tissue.
Combined with our deep expertise in airway, growth, and TMJ care, it’s a uniquely integrative approach you won’t find in most dental or surgical offices.
Most importantly, we never treat the tie in isolation. Every patient gets a plan that considers the whole body, the whole system and the full potential for healing.