As parents, we want our baby’s first feeds to be as comfortable and successful as possible. But for some infants, what looks like a frustrating feeding battle may actually point to a subtle but impactful condition called tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). When a tongue-tie interferes with feeding, speech, or oral development, a laser frenectomy may be the solution.
At Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in St. Louis, Dr. Kelly Jobe and her team are specially trained in performing LightScalpel laser frenectomies for infants and children. Below, we’ll walk through the signs, evaluation process, and treatment details so you can better understand if this procedure could help your child.
What Is a Tongue-Tie?
Every baby is born with a small band of tissue under the tongue called the lingual frenulum. In most infants, this tissue is flexible enough to allow full tongue movement. However, when it’s short, tight, or thick, it can limit how freely the tongue moves – a condition known as tongue-tie.
Restricted tongue movement can make it difficult for a baby to latch, suck, or swallow efficiently. Over time, this can affect feeding, speech development, and even dental alignment.
Common Signs That It May Be More Than Just Fussiness
If your baby is struggling with feeding, these are some of the most common signs that a tongue-tie may be to blame. Not all symptoms need to be present, but several together can signal a problem.
For the Baby:
- Trouble latching or staying latched
- Clicking or popping sounds during feeding
- Long or frequent feeds without satisfaction
- Slow weight gain
- Difficulty moving the tongue from side to side or lifting it
- Tongue appears heart-shaped or notched when extended
For the Parent:
- Persistent nipple pain, cracking, or bleeding
- Nipples appear flattened or creased after nursing
- Recurrent clogged ducts or mastitis
- Low milk supply due to poor milk transfer
When multiple signs are present, it’s worth scheduling a professional evaluation rather than assuming your baby is simply “fussy.”
Why Choose a Laser Frenectomy?
A laser frenectomy is a modern, gentle way to release restrictive tissue under the tongue using light energy instead of scissors or scalpels. At Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, the LightScalpel CO₂ laser offers several key advantages:
- Precision: The laser allows for an extremely accurate and controlled release.
- Comfort: The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, often taking only seconds.
- Less bleeding and swelling: The laser cauterizes tissue as it works, reducing trauma.
- Faster healing: Babies usually feed immediately after treatment.
Because of these benefits, laser frenectomy has become the preferred option for many pediatric dentists and parents alike.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Dr. Jobe first assesses how the frenulum affects tongue function and feeding.
- Comfort Measures: A topical anesthetic or gentle comfort techniques are used.
- Quick Treatment: The laser precisely releases the tissue in a matter of seconds.
- Post-Treatment Feeding: Babies are encouraged to feed right away to soothe and promote movement.
- Aftercare: Parents receive simple stretching or massage instructions to prevent reattachment and ensure proper healing.
Does It Really Work?
For many families, the difference after a laser frenectomy can be immediate. Babies often latch more deeply, feed more efficiently, and gain weight more easily. Parents may notice less nipple pain and a calmer feeding experience.
It’s important to remember, however, that not every feeding challenge is caused by a tongue-tie. Sometimes issues stem from positioning, reflux, or other oral concerns. That’s why the evaluation process is so important before deciding on treatment.
When It’s Not a Tongue-Tie
Some feeding challenges mimic tongue-tie symptoms but have other causes, such as:
- Poor latch or positioning
- High or narrow palate
- Lip tie or other oral tissue restrictions
- Reflux or digestive discomfort
- Neuromuscular or sensory feeding difficulties
A thorough exam by a pediatric dentist experienced in oral-motor function can rule out these possibilities.
Why Parents Trust Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
- Specialized Expertise: Dr. Kelly Jobe and her team have extensive experience performing infant and child laser frenectomies with precision and care.
- Gentle Technology: The LightScalpel CO₂ laser minimizes discomfort and speeds healing.
- Collaborative Care: The team works closely with lactation consultants, bodyworkers, and pediatricians to ensure the best possible feeding outcome.
- Family-Centered Approach: Every procedure is explained clearly, and parents receive personalized guidance before and after treatment.
Take the First Step Toward Easier Feeding
If you suspect your baby might have a tongue-tie, the first step is scheduling a consultation with an experienced pediatric dental team. Early evaluation can make a world of difference for both baby and parent.
Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry proudly serves families throughout St. Louis and the surrounding area, offering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each child’s needs.
Ready to learn more or schedule a consultation? Contact Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry today.
