Dr. Yury Slepak, DDS
Board-certified pediatric dentist, Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Gentle Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie Care
Frenectomy Procedures for Children: Expert Care for Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie at Our Clinic
Tongue-tie and lip-tie are common conditions that can affect your child's ability to eat, speak, or even maintain proper oral hygiene. While some cases are mild, others may interfere with your child's daily activities and development, requiring professional care. Schedule a consultation with our experts at Bite Squad Dental of NYC for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment options customized to your child's needs.
Dr. Slepak is a pediatric dentist with over a decade of experience. Immediately following his graduation from the New York University College of Dentistry with Honors, Dr. Slepak continued his training at Maimonides Medical Center in the Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program.
During his training, he mastered his knowledge and skills in the treatment of children of all ages.
What Are Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the band of tissue under the tongue is unusually tight or thick. This band is called the lingual frenulum. When it is too restrictive, it can make it difficult for the tongue to move freely. Children with tongue-tie may struggle to stick out their tongue or move it from side to side.
Lip-tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is abnormally thick or short. It can potentially interfere with proper breastfeeding and oral hygiene. As children grow, lip-tie can make cleaning teeth more challenging. This may increase the risk of cavities over time.
What Causes Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie in Children?
Both tongue-tie and lip-tie are developmental conditions that form during pregnancy. In some cases, the tissues that create the frenulum do not separate fully as the baby develops.
This incomplete separation causes the restrictions seen in these conditions. These conditions are not always obvious. A careful oral examination is often needed to diagnose them.
Understanding the Frenectomy Procedure for Children
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to treat tongue-tie and lip-tie in children. It involves releasing the tight or thick tissue that restricts movement. This procedure is quick, safe, and offers many benefits for a child's oral health and development. Here are key details:
How the Procedure Is Usually Performed
The procedure can be performed using a surgical tool or a laser, both of which are safe and effective. The choice depends on factors such as the child's age and the specific characteristics of the condition.
Age Range for Treatment
A frenectomy can be done at any age. Many experts recommend treating babies early if feeding is affected. However, older children and even adults can benefit from the procedure.
Discomfort Management During the Procedure
The procedure is designed to be minimally invasive. To ensure your child's comfort, we use numbing agents or local anesthesia. Plus, our team prioritizes a gentle approach.
Time Required for the Procedure
A frenectomy is a quick procedure that usually takes less than 15 minutes. Most children can return to their normal activities on the same day.
What Are the Benefits of Frenectomy for Children?
Improved Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding
Babies with tongue-tie or lip-tie may struggle to latch during feeding. A frenectomy can help them latch more comfortably and feed more effectively.
Better Speech Development
Restricted tongue movement can make it difficult for children to pronounce certain sounds. Treating tongue-tie early can support clearer speech as your child grows.
Enhanced Oral Hygiene
Lip-tie can make brushing and flossing difficult, which may contribute to cavities. A frenectomy improves access to teeth. Thus, it helps children maintain better oral hygiene.
Reduced Risk of Dental Issues
Tight oral tissues may contribute to spacing or alignment challenges in some cases. A frenectomy can help minimize these risks and support overall dental health.
Relief from Discomfort
Tongue-tie or lip-tie can cause tension in the mouth and jaw. This may lead to oral discomfort or difficulty eating certain foods. Treating these conditions can provide relief to your child.
Tips From Our Experienced Dentists: Post-Frenectomy Care for Kids
Gently massage the treated area 3 to 4 times a day as directed by your dentist, starting within the first 24 hours after the procedure. This helps prevent tissue reattachment and promotes proper healing.
Keep the treated area clean by wiping it gently with a damp gauze or cloth after meals.
Apply a small amount of the ointment or gel recommended by your dentist to the treated area to keep it moisturized.
Why Parents Trust Our Clinic for Frenectomy Procedures
Parents trust our clinic because of our expertise in identifying and treating tongue-tie and lip-tie effectively. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess each child's condition thoroughly.
Our team specializes in minimally invasive techniques that reduce discomfort and speed up recovery. We take the time to explain the procedure and its benefits in detail. So, we help parents make informed decisions.
Help Your Child Thrive With Gentle Frenectomy Care
At Bite Squad Dental of NYC, we understand how important your child's oral health is to their overall well-being. Our team provides gentle, specialized frenectomy procedures to support better feeding, speech, and dental health. Visit us at 2464 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223, or call today to schedule a consultation.
Meet Our Dentists
Dr. Jessica Borukhova, DDS
Board-certified pediatric dentist
Dr. Yelena Gofman, DDS
Schedule Your Child's Dental Visit
Call (718) 998-2424 or request an appointment online.
Request a Free Consultation
Pediatric Frenectomy Care Near You in Brooklyn
Bite Squad Dental of NYC is located at 2464 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11223, and we provide gentle frenectomy care for tongue-tie and lip-tie for families across Sheepshead Bay, Brighton Beach, Coney Island, Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Midwood, Flatbush, Borough Park, Canarsie, and Bay Ridge. If your child has trouble latching, feeding, or moving the tongue, our team is here to help.
Concerned about tongue-tie or lip-tie?
Call us to schedule a gentle frenectomy evaluation for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tongue-tie or lip-tie come back after a frenectomy?
Reattachment is rare when proper post-care is followed. Regular stretching exercises and following your dentist's instructions can help prevent reattachment.
How do I know if my baby has tongue-tie or lip-tie?
Look for signs like difficulty latching during breastfeeding, milk dribbling from the mouth, or trouble moving the tongue. Your dentist or pediatrician can confirm the diagnosis.
✓ Medically reviewed by Dr. Yury Slepak, DDS, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: June 2026
Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your individual needs.
