Columbia Frenectomy Surgery & Tongue & Lip Tie Release

Gentle solutions for better function

Compassionate, effective tongue-tie release care

Tongue and lip ties can impact feeding, speech, breathing, and oral health at any age. We offer advanced frenectomy surgery using CO2 laser technology for precise, minimally invasive care.

Our team specializes in both infant and adult treatments, addressing functional concerns such as difficulty breastfeeding, speech challenges, and restricted tongue mobility. By releasing the tie, we improve oral function, airway health, and overall comfort.

Comprehensive tongue tie treatments for all ages

At Columbia Dental Group, we offer 2 types of tongue tie releases to address tongue, lip, and buccal ties in patients of all ages. Whether for infants struggling with feeding or older patients experiencing orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), our precise laser techniques ensure effective treatment and optimal healing.

Infant & toddler frenectomy: Supporting early growth and development

This procedure fully removes the restrictive frenulum using a CO2 laser, which safely evaporates the tissue for minimal discomfort and faster healing. The entire process takes just minutes, with most time spent on consultation and post-procedure guidance.

Encourages better feeding and breathing: Proper tongue posture supports nasal breathing and improved oral function.
Minimally invasive and quick: The CO2 laser eliminates the need for cutting or burning, reducing healing time.
Whole-body approach: Often paired with referrals to IBCLCs, chiropractors, osteopaths, and feeding therapists.
Prevents long-term issues: Early intervention helps reduce future complications related to growth and development.

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What to Expect During an Infant Frenectomy Consultation

Curious what a frenectomy looks like?

Watch this short video for a quick overview of our Infant Frenectomy consultation. Our team uses advanced techniques to ensure your infant feels at ease and experiences a smooth, efficient treatment from start to finish.

Answers to your frenectomy questions

What is a frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a procedure that releases the tissue restricting the tongue or lip for improved function and mobility.

Who benefits from a frenectomy?

Infants struggling with breastfeeding, children with speech difficulties, and adults with restricted oral movement can all benefit from our Columbia frenectomy surgery.

Is a frenectomy painful?

Our CO2 laser technology ensures the procedure is minimally invasive and virtually painless, with quick recovery.

How long does healing take?

Most patients recover in a few days, and healing exercises help optimize the results

What age is best for treatment?

Frenectomies can be performed at any age, with benefits tailored to the patient’s developmental stage and needs.

Before & Afters
Infant & Toddler Frenectomy

Case 1

Lip Tie Release

Case 2

Lip Tie Release

Case 3

Buccal Tie Release

Tongue Tie Release

Case 4

Buccal Tie Release

Lip Tie Release

Tongue Tie Release

Functional frenuloplasty: Targeted treatment for older children & adults

A functional frenuloplasty is designed for patients ages five and older who experience OMDs due to unresolved tongue or lip ties. This procedure is performed in conjunction with myofunctional therapy to optimize outcomes.

Prepares the tongue for optimal healing: Pre- and post-op therapy improve oral motor function for better results.
Minimizes scarring: Healing occurs by primary intention, similar to a paper cut, for a smoother recovery.
Addresses airway and functional concerns: Helps with speech, breathing, jaw pain, and orthodontic stability.
Requires myofunctional therapy follow-ups: Ensures long-term success and prevents post-procedure complications.

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Answers to your functional frenuloplasty questions

What is a functional frenuloplasty?

A functional frenuloplasty is a procedure that releases fascia restricting the tongue muscle or lip attachments. The fascia and surrounding tissues are carefully removed with a combination of CO₂ laser and cotton tip applicators, and the area is then closed with sutures.

The goal is to:

Remove the restrictive tissue
Create the smallest possible wound
Support proper healing and function

This procedure is always done in conjunction with myofunctional therapy to ensure long-term success and address functional concerns, which are often the main symptoms.

Who would benefit from a functional frenuloplasty?

Functional frenuloplasty is typically recommended for patients age 4 and older. Candidates may include those with:

Tethered oral tissues
Sleep-disordered breathing
Myofunctional disorders (diagnosed and treated with a myofunctional therapist)
Difficulty with dental work
TMJ or jaw discomfort

These treatments are often combined with other therapies such as bodywork, CFT (Craniosacral Fascial Therapy), or CST (Craniosacral Therapy).

Is a functional frenuloplasty painful?

Some discomfort is expected within the first 24–48 hours. This can typically be managed with:

Ice therapy
Over-the-counter NSAIDs
Homeopathic remedies (e.g., Arnica, curcumin)

Because this procedure is paired with myofunctional therapy, patients also receive guided stretches and exercises designed to reduce pain and support recovery.

How long does it take to heal?

24–48 hours: Highest risk for pain or discomfort
Day 7–14: “Contraction phase,” when tissues may feel more restrictive (this is totally normal and part of the normal healing process)
90–120 days: Full healing, range of motion, and functional improvement

Follow-up with myofunctional therapists and supportive bodywork is often recommended during recovery to optimize results.

What age is best for treatment?

This procedure is generally recommended for patients age 4 and older, and it can also be performed successfully in adults.

Depending on tongue space, tongue tie, and tongue tone, the treatment plan can look different for every patient. In some cases, additional therapies, recommendations, or procedures with other providers may be necessary before releasing tissue in our office.

Our goal is always to be a solution for our patients, but we also recognize that collaborative care may be required to achieve the best results.

Before & Afters
Functional Frenuloplaty

Case 1

Before and After Myofunctional Therapy and Functional Frenuloplasty

Case 2

Before and After Myofunctional Therapy and Functional Frenuloplasty

Why Choose Us

Restoring comfort and function

From reducing speech limitations to alleviating oral discomfort, our team provides expert frenectomy care for improved daily function at any age.

Laser precision for smoother recovery

CO2 lasers provide efficient tongue and lip tie releases with less bleeding, discomfort, and faster healing.

Custom tongue and lip tie treatment

We assess the severity of restrictions and deliver targeted treatment for optimal oral function and mobility.

Integrated post-procedure therapy

We offer exercises and myofunctional guidance to ensure proper healing and long-term improvement after the release.