Comfort-Focused Functional Care
Frenectomy in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Gentle lip- and tongue-tie release at Wauwatosa Dental Arts.
A frenectomy is a small, precise procedure that can make a big difference in how you or your child eat, speak, and smile. At Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, we take a conservative, comfort-first approach to treating tongue-, lip-, and cheek-ties. Our team explains every step, answers your questions, and helps you feel confident about your treatment and recovery.
Frenectomy
Frenectomy at Wauwatosa Dental Arts
A frenectomy is a quick procedure that gently releases a tight band of tissue (called a frenum) under the tongue, lip, or cheek so everything can move more freely. At Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, we focus on comfort, clear communication, and long-term results—whether we are helping a baby feed better, a child speak more clearly, or an adult protect their gums and dental work.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenum is the small fold of tissue that connects your lips, tongue, or cheeks to the gums. When this tissue is too short, too thick, or too tight, it is often called a “tie.” A frenectomy carefully releases or reshapes this tissue so the tongue or lip can move normally. The procedure is usually completed in a single visit with local numbing, and many patients feel little to no discomfort.
Who Might Benefit From a Frenectomy?
Frenectomies can be helpful at many ages—from infants to adults. Our dentists will evaluate your mouth, discuss your symptoms, and recommend treatment only if it is likely to improve your comfort and function.
- Infants with feeding difficulties Trouble latching, prolonged feeding times, or clicking sounds while nursing.
- Children with speech concerns A restricted tongue can make it hard to pronounce certain sounds clearly.
- Adults with gum or denture issues A tight frenum can pull on the gums, contribute to recession, or loosen dentures.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before anything is done, we will review your health history, examine the area, and explain all options. If a frenectomy is recommended, we will walk you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.
- Gentle numbing Local anesthesia or a topical numbing gel is used to keep you comfortable.
- Precise tissue release The tight frenum is carefully released or reshaped to allow better movement.
- Quick visit and instructions The procedure is usually very fast, and you will receive simple home-care instructions.
Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, which can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet for a short time. Our team will let you know what is normal, what to watch for, and when to contact us with questions.
Healing, Aftercare, and Long-Term Benefits
Healing from a frenectomy is typically quick. Some patients notice improvements in comfort and movement almost right away, while speech, feeding, or orthodontic benefits may become more noticeable over time. For children, we may recommend working with your pediatrician, lactation consultant, or speech therapist as part of a team approach.
- Smoother feeding or speaking Better tongue or lip movement can make everyday activities feel more natural.
- Improved oral health Reducing tension on gums and tissue can help protect your smile over time.
- Personalized follow-up Our team will schedule check-ins as needed to support your healing and results.
If you have been told you or your child may have a tongue-tie or lip-tie, or you are concerned about gum pulling or denture fit, we invite you to schedule an evaluation. Contact Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin to talk with our caring team about whether a frenectomy is right for you.
The short answer
A frenectomy is a small procedure that releases or reshapes a frenum, the fold of tissue connecting the lips, tongue or cheeks to the gums, when it is too short, thick or tight. After an exam and a review of your health history, the area is numbed with local anesthesia or a topical gel and the tight tissue is carefully released, usually in a single quick visit. It is used for infants with feeding difficulties, children with speech concerns and adults whose frenum pulls on the gums or loosens dentures.
Frenectomy: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a frenectomy?
- A frenectomy is a small dental procedure that releases or reshapes a tight band of tissue, called a frenum, under the tongue, lip or cheek. When that tissue is too short, thick or tight, it is often called a “tie,” and it can restrict how the tongue or lip moves. Releasing it can make everyday activities like eating, speaking and smiling more comfortable.
- How do I know if my child needs a frenectomy?
- Signs that a child may need a frenectomy include difficulty latching or staying latched during feeding, gagging or clicking sounds while nursing, slow weight gain, or trouble lifting the tongue or moving it side to side. In older children, speech concerns or difficulty cleaning around the front teeth can also be clues. A thorough exam is the way to know, and treatment is recommended only when it is truly needed.
- Is a frenectomy painful?
- Most patients, including children, tolerate a frenectomy very well. Local anesthetic and other comfort measures keep the area numb during the procedure. Afterward you may feel mild soreness or tightness, which usually improves within a few days and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet.
- How long does a frenectomy take?
- The procedure itself is typically very quick, often just a few minutes once the area is numb. Your appointment may run a little longer. That extra time allows for a careful evaluation, an explanation of the procedure and a review of aftercare instructions.
- What is recovery like after a frenectomy?
- Most patients return to normal daily activities the same day or the next. You may be advised to eat softer foods for a short period and to keep the area clean. Some patients are also given gentle stretching or movement exercises to support proper healing and mobility.
- Will a frenectomy help with speech or feeding issues?
- In many cases, yes, a frenectomy can improve tongue or lip movement and make feeding or speech easier. Results differ from person to person, and some benefits become more noticeable over time rather than right away. For infants and children, treatment may be combined with support from your pediatrician, lactation consultant or speech therapist for stronger long-term results.
- Is a frenectomy safe?
- When performed by an experienced dental team, a frenectomy is considered a safe and routine procedure. As with any treatment, there are small risks such as bleeding or infection, but these are uncommon. You are told how those risks are minimized and which signs to watch for at home.
- Does insurance cover a frenectomy?
- Coverage for a frenectomy varies depending on your plan, the reason for the procedure and the patient’s age. The front office team can help you review your benefits and provide an estimate before treatment whenever possible. Payment options can also be discussed if needed.
- Can adults have a frenectomy?
- Yes, adults can have a frenectomy. It can help when a tight frenum is pulling on the gums, contributing to recession, affecting orthodontic treatment or making dentures or partials uncomfortable. Your specific concerns are evaluated first so you know whether a frenectomy is likely to help.
- How do I schedule a frenectomy consultation?
- To schedule a frenectomy consultation, contact the Wauwatosa, Wisconsin office if you think you or your child may have a tongue-tie or lip-tie, or if you have questions about treatment. The team will help you book a convenient visit. From there they guide you through each step, from the evaluation to aftercare.
Schedule Appointment
Call us at (414) 462-3160 or visit us at 11600 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
