A Pain-Free Laser Frenectomy: Is It Possible?

Releasing a lip or tongue tie may sound like a daunting procedure, but the truth is that advancements in dental technology now make it easier than ever before. While many dentists continue to rely on a traditional scalpel and sutures to perform this treatment, a newer, more patient-friendly approach is available – a laser frenectomy. But is this kind of procedure really pain-free? Keep reading to learn how this device works and why you can feel more at ease when preparing your child for their upcoming visit.

What is Laser Frenectomy Treatment?

Laser frenectomy treatment is designed to treat lip and tongue ties so that a patient can move these parts of their oral anatomy more freely.

There are many different dental lasers on the market; however, some oral healthcare professionals choose to use the LightScalpel CO₂ soft tissue laser. Equipped with a concentrated, precision-based beam of light, it quickly releases the banded frenum (the tissue located beneath the tongue or behind the upper lip) within 10-15 seconds.

Using this method allows for a fast-acting process that often requires no anesthesia or sedation, so patients can be in and out of treatment much quicker than if scalpels and sutures were used.

Does It Cause Any Pain?

No, a laser frenectomy does not cause any pain. This may be hard to believe, but the laser’s concentrated beam of light moves so fast that it doesn’t allow for excessive bleeding, swelling, or discomfort.

Instead, it cauterizes and sterilizes the area so that there is less chance for infection, and a patient’s recovery time is significantly reduced.

While it’s not uncommon for infants or young children to become emotional at the start of treatment, it’s usually because they’re experiencing something that is unfamiliar, not painful. Within minutes, the entire procedure is complete, allowing parents to reenter and soothe their child.

What Makes a Laser Frenectomy Better Than the Traditional Method?

When you begin to compare how a laser frenectomy is performed as opposed to one that uses traditional instruments, you’ll find many great benefits cannot be denied, including:

• Minimal bleeding or swelling
• Reduced chance of infection after the procedure
• A virtually pain-free solution
• A shorter recovery time
• A minimally invasive procedure
• A solution that often does not require anesthesia or sedation

It’s normal to be uncertain about your child receiving treatment with a dental laser; however, if a frenectomy is required, there’s no better solution to get the job done quickly, painlessly, and correctly.

About the Author
Dr. Maggie Davis earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Florida. A board-certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she is certified in treating infant and pediatric tongue ties and lip ties by the American Board of Laser Surgery. She is also a graduate of Dr. Richard Baxter’s Tongue Tie Academy and TOTs: Tethered Oral Tissues Program. If you believe your child may be dealing with a lip or tongue tie, call our office at (727) 786-7551 or visit our website.