Ask the Expert: What Parents Need to Know About Frenectomy, Recovery & Myths- Part 2
Welcome back to part two of our Ask the Expert series! If you’ve been following along since the first post, you already know how important it is to recognize the signs of oral ties and why early diagnosis matters. In Part 2 of this series, we’ll dive deeper into when treatment is recommended, what a frenectomy involves, and what to expect during recovery and aftercare. We’ll also explore the vital role of therapy before and after the procedure and share practical advice on what to do if you suspect your child has a tie. Whether your little one is an infant or a teenager, this guide will help you feel informed and confident in making the best decisions for their health and development.
This blog was created in collaboration with Dr. Jackie and Dr. Katie, board-certified pediatric dentists and founders of Tied.
Meet Our Experts
As boy moms who have personally navigated tongue and lip ties in their own families, they bring both professional expertise and real-life experience to the conversation. Their firsthand understanding of how tethered oral tissues can impact feeding, speech, facial growth, and airway development has shaped their patient-centered, collaborative approach to care.
Today, they’re here to answer more common questions about oral ties.
When is treatment recommended?
Treatment is recommended when a team of functional providers (Dentists, Medical Providers, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Language Pathologists, Lactation Consultants) have confirmed the presence of a restrictive tether as well as a functional symptom that indicates the need for treatment.
At Tied, Dr. Katie and Dr. Jackie treat kids in infancy, childhood, and teenage years depending on presentation of symptoms.
What does a frenectomy involve?
A frenectomy is a safe and gentle procedure that can be performed with either a laser or a traditional cut (scalpel or scissors). At Tied, Dr. Katie and Dr. Jackie perform frenectomies using a CO₂ laser, a minimally invasive tool that allows for precise and accurate release of tethered oral tissue through a process called ablation. This advanced laser technique offers increased comfort, minimal bleeding, and faster healing.
Following the procedure, follow-up exams are provided at one and two week intervals to monitor healing and offer continued support. During these visits, photobiomodulation therapy is also offered, which is a red-light healing treatment that helps enhance tissue repair, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and ease sensitivity.
Before and after tongue tie release
Before and after lip tie release
What is recovery like?
Most children return to their normal activities within 24 to 72 hours. For infants and young children, we recommend a proactive pain management plan to help keep feeding and growth as comfortable and uninterrupted as possible. Before you leave, we’ll go over the proper dosing of Tylenol and Motrin based on your child’s age and weight.
After the procedure, the incision site will develop a soft, moist scab—often diamond-shaped under the tongue or lip —that appears white or yellow. This scab usually reaches its largest size around day five and then gradually shrinks over the next two weeks. The healing process and scab size can vary depending on your child’s individual anatomy.
Role of pre- and post-release therapy
Pre- and post release therapy is essential to obtain the optimal outcome after a frenectomy to prevent reattachment and increase mobility of the lip and tongue.
In children, learning to elevate the tongue pre-procedure and familiarize themselves with the after care stretches will make the post-release care more effective and easier to complete. Working with functional providers is very important pre- and post-release.
In infants, having access to functional providers helps to ensure that a baby is well supported after the procedure to learn how to feed more efficiently. Due to the initial soreness and changes in child’s latch/oral mechanics, feedings may be inconsistent the first week. It is critical to have support from a feeding specialist for guidance.
Following the procedure, what does the aftercare routine look like?
After the procedure, it’s important to gently stretch the treated area 3 to 4 times a day. This helps keep the tissue flexible and helps it heal well. Make sure you have good lighting so you can clearly see the area while you do the stretches. We recommend doing these after care stretches/massages for 1 month while the tissue is healing and reorganizing.
What’s one common myth or misconception about oral ties?
A common misconception is that release providers release all children. A comprehensive and functional approach to diagnosis will allow providers to suggest a frenectomy only when a true functional deficit is observed.
What should parents do if they suspect a tie?
If you think your child might have a tongue tie, it’s recommended to have a trusted provider perform a thorough assessment of your child’s oral structures and assess his or her function. Contact us to schedule a consultation. Getting support early can make a big difference!
Navigating oral ties can feel overwhelming, but understanding the treatment process, recovery, and the importance of collaborative care makes a world of difference. As we’ve seen, the frenectomy itself is just one part of the journey and therapy plays a key role in achieving long-term success.
In Part 3 of our "Ask the Expert" series, we’ll dive into the speech-language pathologist’s perspective on oral ties, including how they can impact speech, feeding, and oral motor development. We’ll explore the role of therapy both before and after a release, what red flags to watch for, and why a collaborative, team-based approach is essential for long-term success. Stay tuned — you won’t want to miss the SLP’s perspective on oral ties and what every parent should know!
Be sure to check out Tied for more resources. At Tied, Dr. Jackie and Dr. Katie are passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where families can ask questions and get clear, functional guidance on diagnosing and treating oral ties. They’re honored to be part of your child’s care journey and hope this resource helps you feel informed, supported, and empowered.
Looking for speech therapy or pediatric dentistry near me? Book an appointment today!