A pediatric frenectomy is a simple procedure that removes or loosens a small piece of tissue in a child’s mouth called a frenum. The frenum can sometimes be too tight, which may cause problems with nursing, eating, speaking, or teeth spacing. During a frenectomy, the dentist gently releases this tissue so your child can move their tongue or lip more freely. The procedure is quick, safe, and can make a big difference in your child’s comfort and development.

Tongue tie surgery, also called a frenectomies, might sound scary at first, but it’s actually a quick and safe procedure. Most children only feel mild discomfort, and your family dentist will use tools that make the process fast and gentle. The surgery can greatly improve eating, speaking, and overall comfort. Parents are usually surprised at how simple and easy the experience is for their child!

A child may need a frenectomy if the tissue under their tongue (tongue-tie) or upper lip (lip-tie) is too tight and causes problems. Signs can include difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding, trouble speaking clearly, gaps between the front teeth, or discomfort when moving the tongue or lip. Not every child with a tongue-tie or lip-tie needs surgery, but if the tissue is affecting feeding, speech, or dental development, a family dentist may recommend a frenectomy to improve function and prevent future problems.

After a pediatric frenectomy, your child may feel sore for a few days, but recovery is usually quick. Parents are often given simple stretching or massage exercises to help the area heal properly and to prevent the tissue from reattaching. It’s important to keep the mouth clean by gently brushing nearby teeth and rinsing with water after meals. Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes are recommended for the first day or two. Over-the-counter children’s pain relievers can also be used during recovery.