Lip or Tongue Tie? When a Frenectomy Is Needed

It’s not uncommon for new parents to notice that feeding just doesn’t seem easy for their little one. Whether it’s trouble latching during breastfeeding, excessive drooling, or difficulty with speech development, these could all be signs of a lip or tongue tie. 

At Little Sprouts Pediatric Dentistry in Sun City, TX, Dr. Jonathan McNair and his compassionate team specialize in identifying and treating these issues through a simple procedure called a frenectomy. We understand that any concern involving your child’s mouth can feel overwhelming. But with our gentle, personalized care approach, we’re here to guide you through it.

What Is a Lip or Tongue Tie?

A lip or tongue tie occurs when the frenum, the small piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the upper lip to the gums, is too tight or short. This restricts the natural movement that’s critical in everyday functions like feeding, swallowing, and speaking.

While some children show no signs of difficulty, others may struggle and benefit significantly from early treatment. Common signs that may indicate a lip or tongue tie include:

• Difficulty latching during breastfeeding or prolonged feeding sessions
• Clicking sounds while nursing
• Gassiness or reflux symptoms in infants
• Speech delays or unclear speech in toddlers
• Gaps between teeth or difficulty with oral hygiene

At Little Sprouts Pediatric Dentistry, we take a thorough and individualized approach to assess whether your child’s symptoms are truly related to a tongue or lip tie, ensuring no unnecessary interventions.

What Is a Frenectomy and When Is It Needed?

A frenectomy is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that releases a tongue or lip tie to restore proper movement. Using gentle laser technology, Dr. McNair can perform this procedure with minimal discomfort and a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgical methods. 

It’s often life-changing for both children and their families, especially in situations where feeding challenges or speech development delays are present. A frenectomy may be recommended if:

• Your infant is struggling to feed effectively, causing weight gain concerns
• Your child is having difficulty speaking or being understood
• The tight tissue is affecting oral hygiene or causing discomfort

Our child-centered approach means your child’s comfort and trust are always our top priorities. We offer sedation options when needed and take extra care to ensure a calm, reassuring experience, especially for our patients with sensory sensitivities or special needs.

How We Support You Through the Process

At Little Sprouts Pediatric Dentistry, every child receives an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to their unique anatomy and needs. Dr. McNair uses a relationship-based model that emphasizes understanding, communication, and comfort, so whether it’s your newborn’s first procedure or a toddler experiencing their first dental milestone, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.

Our team also provides detailed aftercare guidance and connects you with additional resources, such as lactation consultants or speech therapists, to support full recovery and ongoing development.

• Comprehensive assessment to determine the need for a frenectomy
• Pediatric-friendly laser technique to reduce discomfort and healing time
• Expertise in working with children of all ability levels, including those with special healthcare needs

Why Timely Treatment Matters

While some lip or tongue ties may not require intervention, untreated restrictions can impact a child’s feeding, speech, dental health, and even self-esteem over time. Addressing these concerns early can lead to improved nourishment, better communication abilities, and greater confidence as your child grows.

We want every child in Sun City and beyond to thrive without oral restrictions holding them back. With the right care, a frenectomy can drastically improve day-to-day life, for both you and your little one.

Schedule a Frenectomy Consultation in Sun City, TX

If you suspect your child may have a lip or tongue tie, don’t wait to explore your options. The team at Little Sprouts Pediatric Dentistry is here to help with expert evaluation and compassionate treatment from Dr. Jonathan McNair. Call us today at (228) 219-9601 to schedule a consultation and give your child the comfort and freedom they deserve.