If your child has been diagnosed with a tongue-tie or lip-tie, one of the first questions that comes up is how the procedure will be done. You may have heard that laser frenectomy is the newer, more comfortable option, and that traditional surgical release is older and more involved. The truth is that both methods have genuine merit, and the most important factor in a successful outcome is not the tool used but the skill and experience of the provider performing the procedure.
At University Pediatric Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Funny has performed frenectomies for and approaches every case with a careful, individualized assessment. Our tongue-tie and lip-tie treatments are guided by what is best for each child’s specific anatomy and needs, not a one-size-fits-all protocol.
What Happens During Each Type of Frenectomy
Before comparing the two approaches, it helps to understand what each one actually involves. A frenectomy is a procedure that releases the frenulum, the small band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the upper lip to the gums. When that tissue is too short or tight, it can restrict movement and affect feeding, speech, and oral development.
Traditional Surgical Frenectomy
The traditional method uses surgical scissors or a scalpel to cut and release the restricted tissue. Once the release is made, sutures are typically placed to close the wound and allow the area to heal. The procedure is straightforward, has been used successfully for many decades, and is highly effective in the hands of a skilled provider. Recovery generally involves some tenderness and swelling for several days, along with wound care to prevent the tissue from reattaching.
Laser Frenectomy
Laser frenectomy uses a focused beam of light energy to release the tissue. Because the laser simultaneously cauterizes as it cuts, bleeding is minimal and sutures are often not required. The procedure tends to be quicker, and the lower amount of bleeding can make the experience less stressful for the child. Research published in the National Library of Medicine found that patients who underwent laser frenectomy reported significantly reduced pain both immediately after surgery and in the days that followed, compared to those who had a conventional surgical release. Our laser dentistry services reflect this commitment to minimally invasive, comfort-focused care.
What the Differences Actually Mean for Your Child
When families ask which method is better, the honest answer is that both can produce excellent results. Here is a practical look at how the two approaches differ in experience and recovery:
- Bleeding: Laser frenectomy causes minimal bleeding due to the cauterizing effect of the laser. Traditional surgery involves more visible bleeding, which can be alarming for parents even when it is clinically normal.
- Sutures: Traditional frenectomies typically require stitches. Laser procedures usually do not, which simplifies recovery care.
- Recovery comfort: Most children experience less discomfort following a laser release, though post-procedure stretches and exercises are equally important with both methods to prevent reattachment.
- Provider experience: This is the most critical variable of all. A provider who is highly trained and experienced with either method will achieve better outcomes than one who is less practiced, regardless of the tool used.
Every family should feel comfortable asking their provider about their training and experience before moving forward. Our pediatric dental FAQ covers many common questions parents have about procedures at our office.
Why Provider Skill Matters More Than the Method
It is easy to assume that the technology itself determines the result, but the clinical reality is more nuanced than that. Proper identification of the type and severity of the tie, accurate release of the restricted tissue, and thorough guidance on post-procedure care all depend on the provider’s knowledge and hands-on experience. A well-executed traditional release can produce outcomes just as positive as a laser procedure performed by someone less experienced with the technique.
This is why we encourage parents not to focus solely on which tool will be used, but to ask questions about how many frenectomies the provider has performed, what their aftercare instructions look like, and how they evaluate functional improvement following the release. For detailed guidance on what to expect after your child’s procedure, our post-treatment instructions page is a helpful resource.
Trust University Pediatric Dentistry for Frenectomy Care in Charlotte
At University Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Funny combines over 15 years of experience as a private practice owner with a genuine commitment to treating each child as an individual. She is a mother herself and understands the weight of the decisions parents face when navigating procedures such as a frenectomy. You can learn more about her background and approach on our meet our doctors page.
Whether your child is an infant struggling with feeding or an older child facing speech or dental concerns, we work closely alongside referring functional providers to help guide your family through the process and explore the best options for your child’s care. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward getting your child the care they deserve.