303.989.3192 |7373 W. JEFFERSON AVE, UNIT 104, LAKEWOOD, CO |BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

303.989.3192

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For the latest information about adult tongue-ties and lip-ties, visit our sister site, Dr. Turner's Untethered Airway Health Center!

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Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Procedures in Lakewood

Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Procedures

When the thin pieces of tissue connecting your tongue to the floor of your mouth or your lips to your gums are too tight or thick, they can restrict movement and cause surprising problems throughout life. At our Lakewood dental clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tongue-ties and lip-ties in patients of all ages using advanced CO2 laser technology. These procedures, also known as frenectomies, can resolve feeding difficulties in infants, speech problems in children, and even sleep apnea and TMJ pain in adults. Our gentle, precise laser treatment takes just minutes but can dramatically improve quality of life by restoring proper oral function. Many parents are amazed at how quickly their baby's latch improves, while adult patients often experience better breathing, reduced neck tension, and improved speech clarity they never thought possible.

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Modern Laser Treatment for All Ages

Our tongue-tie and lip-tie procedures use state-of-the-art CO2 laser technology that offers significant advantages over traditional surgical methods. The laser precisely vaporizes the restrictive tissue while simultaneously sealing blood vessels, resulting in minimal bleeding, reduced pain, and faster healing. For infants, the procedure typically takes less than 30 seconds per tie, and babies can nurse immediately afterward. We carefully assess not just the appearance of the tie but its functional impact, examining how it affects feeding, breathing, speech, and oral posture. Our comprehensive evaluation includes checking for both anterior (front) and posterior (hidden) tongue-ties, as well as upper lip-ties that can affect dental spacing and facial development. The laser's precision allows us to release just the right amount of tissue while preserving important anatomical structures.

Beyond the Procedure: Comprehensive Care

What distinguishes our approach is the complete care we provide before, during, and after the procedure. We understand that ties rarely exist in isolation – they're often part of a larger pattern of oral dysfunction. That's why we coordinate with lactation consultants, speech therapists, and myofunctional therapists to address all aspects of oral function. Our post-procedure care includes specific exercises to prevent reattachment and optimize healing, detailed feeding guidance for nursing mothers, and follow-up assessments to monitor progress. For older children and adults, we often combine tie release with myofunctional therapy to retrain proper tongue and lip movement patterns that may have been compensating for the restriction for years. This comprehensive approach helps prevent common issues like reattachment and maximizes the functional improvements from the procedure.

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recognizes that tongue-tie can significantly impact breastfeeding success and that proper assessment and treatment can improve feeding outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Take Action for Better Function

Don't let tongue or lip restrictions limit your or your child's potential. Our expert team in Lakewood provides compassionate, skilled treatment for ties at any age. Schedule your consultation today to learn how this simple procedure can make a profound difference.


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speaking, breathing, or sleeping?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my baby has a tongue or lip tie?

Signs in babies include painful or difficult breastfeeding, poor latch, clicking sounds while feeding, slow weight gain, excessive gas, and maternal nipple pain or damage. Lip-tie symptoms include difficulty flanging the upper lip, gap between front teeth, and milk leaking during feeds. Not all ties require treatment.

Is the laser procedure painful for babies?

The CO2 laser procedure causes minimal discomfort. Most babies cry briefly from being held still rather than pain. The laser seals nerve endings as it works, reducing pain. We can apply topical numbing gel beforehand, and babies can nurse immediately after for natural pain relief and comfort.

What's the recovery process like after tie release?

Recovery is typically quick with laser treatment. Expect some fussiness for 24-48 hours. We provide specific stretching exercises to prevent reattachment, which are crucial for proper healing. Most patients return to normal activities immediately. Adults may experience mild soreness for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

Can adults benefit from tongue-tie release?

Yes, many adults experience significant improvements after tongue-tie release. Benefits include better breathing, reduced snoring, decreased TMJ and neck pain, improved speech clarity, and easier dental hygiene. Adult ties often contribute to sleep apnea, chronic headaches, and digestive issues from improper swallowing.

How soon will we see improvements after the procedure?

Infant feeding often improves immediately, though some babies need time to learn new patterns. Speech improvements in children may take weeks of practice. Adults typically notice breathing and tension improvements within days. Full benefits develop over several weeks as tissues heal and new movement patterns establish.

What if the tie grows back?

Proper post-procedure exercises significantly reduce reattachment risk. We teach specific stretches performed several times daily for 3-4 weeks. If partial reattachment occurs, we can revise the procedure. Our comprehensive approach and detailed aftercare instructions result in very low reattachment rates compared to traditional methods.

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Are you ready to smile more, breathe freely, and live better?

We are, too! Give us a call or complete the form to schedule an appointment! We'd love to sit down and discuss how you can achieve better oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile!

Please call 303.989.3192 or use the form to request to schedule an appointment. The Balanced Dental Studio Team will then call you to confirm a date and time.