Child and Adult Tongue & Lip Tie at Dental BLU

Gentle Laser Frenectomy for Better Function, Comfort, and Health

Tongue and lip ties can affect people at any age, from infancy through adulthood. At Dental BLU in Highland Heights, Kentucky, we provide gentle, precise laser frenectomy treatment for children and adults with restricted tongue or lip movement. Our goal is to improve comfort, function, and long-term oral health in a calm, supportive environment.

Our dentists, Dr. Angela Arlinghaus and Dr. Katie Meister, use advanced laser technology to release tongue and lip ties with minimal discomfort and downtime.

What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the frenulum) is too short, thick, or tight.

A lip tie develops when the tissue connecting the upper or lower lip to the gums is overly restrictive.

When these tissues are too tight, they can interfere with everyday functions such as:

• Speaking
  
• Chewing and swallowing
  
• Maintaining good oral hygiene
  
• Breathing patterns
  
• Jaw and facial development
  

Left untreated, tongue and lip ties can contribute to challenges that persist into adulthood.

Laser Frenectomy: A Modern, Comfortable Treatment

A laser frenectomy releases the restrictive tissue using precise, concentrated light energy.
Compared to traditional surgical methods, laser treatment offers:

• Quick, efficient procedures
  
• Minimal bleeding and swelling
  
• No stitches required
  
• Reduced risk of infection
  
• Greater comfort during and after the procedure
  
• Faster, smoother healing
  

For families with infants experiencing feeding challenges, we also provide infant frenectomy through our Infant Tongue & Lip Tie service.

How Tongue and Lip Ties Affect Children and Adults

Children and Teens

Children may experience:

• Speech delays or difficulty with certain sounds
  
• Trouble chewing or managing certain foods
  
• Mouth breathing
  
• Difficulty brushing and flossing
  
• Social discomfort or embarrassment
  

A laser frenectomy can help restore natural mobility and support improved speech, feeding, and oral hygiene habits.

Adults

Adults with lingering tongue or lip ties may experience:

• Tension in the neck, jaw, or face
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Speech challenges
  
• Trouble keeping teeth clean
  
• Gum recession
  
• Oral discomfort or restricted movement
  

Treatment may improve comfort, oral hygiene, and overall function.

What to Expect During a Laser Frenectomy

1. Comprehensive Evaluation

Your visit begins with a thorough examination of tongue and lip mobility, oral health, breathing patterns, and any functional challenges. If helpful, we may coordinate care with providers such as speech therapists or myofunctional therapists.

2. Gentle, Precise Laser Release

During treatment:

• A topical or local anesthetic may be applied
  
• Laser energy is used to gently release the tight tissue
  
• The procedure is fast and minimally invasive
  

Most patients feel only mild warmth or pressure.

3. Recovery and Aftercare

Healing is typically quick.

• Minimal swelling
  
• Little to no bleeding
  
• Return to normal activities soon after treatment
  

We provide detailed aftercare instructions, including stretches or mobility exercises when appropriate.

Is Tongue or Lip Tie Treatment Right for You or Your Child?

Consider an evaluation if you or your child has:

• Difficulty lifting or extending the tongue
  
• Trouble with speech clarity
  
• Challenges with chewing or swallowing
  
• Gaps between the upper front teeth
  
• Mouth breathing
  
• Trouble keeping teeth clean
  

Our team will determine whether treatment is needed and create a personalized plan. For snoring-related concerns, we may also discuss Solea Sleep or Sleep Apnea Treatment when appropriate.