At The Clinic for Oral Health in Wahpeton, ND, Dr. Judith Schmidt offers precise, pain-free frenectomy procedures using advanced Solea laser technology. A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases a tight or restrictive frenum—the band of tissue under the tongue or inside the upper lip—that can interfere with speech, eating, nursing, or oral development. Using the Solea laser, Dr. Schmidt can perform this treatment without the need for sutures or scalpels, providing patients of all ages with a faster, more comfortable experience. Whether addressing tongue-tie in infants or correcting lip-tie in adults, this laser-assisted approach improves function while minimizing downtime and discomfort.
Common Signs That a Frenectomy May Be Needed
Frenum restrictions can impact both children and adults in different ways. These symptoms often go unnoticed until they begin to affect speech, oral hygiene, feeding, or facial development. Signs that may indicate the need for a frenectomy include:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or poor latch in infants
- Limited tongue mobility
- Speech delays or difficulty with articulation
- Gaps between the upper front teeth
- Trouble eating or swallowing
- Gum recession near the frenum attachment
- Clicking jaws or tightness in oral movement
Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes, especially in growing children or nursing infants.
Why Frenectomies Matter in Dental and Overall Health
Restricted oral tissues—commonly called tongue-ties or lip-ties—can cause a surprising number of functional challenges. For infants, a tongue-tie can lead to difficulty latching, prolonged feeding times, colic, and failure to thrive. Mothers may also experience pain or damage during breastfeeding due to improper positioning. As children grow, a restrictive frenum may affect speech development, cause tension in the jaw or neck, and limit the ability to clean the mouth properly, increasing the risk of cavities or gum issues.
In older children and adults, a tight frenum can contribute to orthodontic problems, such as spacing between the front teeth or shifting after braces. It may also impact the comfort and fit of dental appliances, like dentures or retainers, and restrict natural tongue movements essential for speech and swallowing.
From a provider’s standpoint, identifying and treating frenum restrictions early is key to preventing long-term complications. At The Clinic for Oral Health, Dr. Schmidt uses Solea laser technology to perform frenectomies with extreme precision, resulting in minimal discomfort, no bleeding, and faster healing compared to traditional methods. This innovative, gentle approach allows for improved outcomes across all age groups, from infants to adults.
The Importance of Early Intervention and Personalized Treatment
While not every patient with a visible frenum needs treatment, those showing symptoms of restriction often benefit greatly from a frenectomy. Early intervention is especially critical for infants struggling with feeding, as timely correction can improve weight gain and reduce stress for both baby and parent. Likewise, children with speech issues or delayed development can see noticeable improvement in oral function and articulation once the restriction is removed.
Even adults can experience relief from tension, jaw discomfort, or gum recession after a frenectomy. Patients who have struggled with chronic tightness, oral fatigue, or denture movement often discover that a previously undiagnosed frenum was the cause. The procedure is fast, effective, and often completed in one visit with the Solea laser, making it an easy addition to your oral health care plan.
Dr. Schmidt takes a personalized approach with every frenectomy case, beginning with a thorough examination, medical history, and functional assessment. Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or your child, she offers clear guidance on when the procedure is appropriate and what outcomes to expect.
How Laser Frenectomies Are Performed at The Clinic for Oral Health
Dr. Judith Schmidt uses the Solea laser—a CO₂ dental laser system known for its precision and pain-free delivery—to perform frenectomies quickly and comfortably. This technology eliminates the need for cutting with scalpels or sutures, resulting in a shorter recovery and minimal tissue trauma.
Steps in the Laser Frenectomy Process:
- Evaluation and Diagnosis: Dr. Schmidt conducts a full assessment of the patient’s oral anatomy, function, and symptoms. For infants, feeding history is reviewed; for older children or adults, speech or mobility concerns are considered.
- Treatment Planning and Education: If a frenectomy is recommended, Dr. Schmidt explains the benefits and process to the patient or parent. Risks, aftercare, and expected results are clearly outlined to ensure full understanding and comfort.
- Solea Laser Application: The laser precisely targets and vaporizes the restricted frenum tissue. In most cases, there is no bleeding, no need for stitches, and minimal discomfort—often eliminating the need for local anesthesia.
- Immediate Mobility Testing: For tongue-tie cases, movement of the tongue is evaluated immediately after the procedure to confirm improved range of motion. Patients are often surprised by the instant change.
- Post-Procedure Care and Exercises: Aftercare includes simple stretching exercises or feeding support instructions to promote proper healing and function. Most patients resume normal activities the same day.
Protecting Oral Mobility and Preventing Complications
Following a frenectomy, proper care and continued observation are important to ensure long-term success. For infants, coordination with lactation consultants or pediatricians can help reinforce improved feeding techniques. Parents are often guided through stretches and exercises to prevent reattachment and encourage proper mobility as the tissue heals.
For children and adults, Dr. Schmidt may recommend a short course of tongue or lip exercises—often called myofunctional therapy—to retrain oral muscles and support healthy habits. These exercises help the tongue rest in a natural position, improve speech articulation, and encourage proper breathing patterns.
Preventing future complications involves regular dental checkups, continued monitoring of tissue healing, and awareness of any changes in speech, bite, or oral posture. Addressing frenum issues early and thoroughly can also support the success of future orthodontic or prosthetic treatments.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most patients experience an immediate improvement in comfort, mobility, and function following a laser frenectomy. Infants typically feed more effectively within hours of treatment. Children may show clearer speech or fewer jaw complaints, while adults often notice relief from chronic tension or difficulties with eating and speaking.
Healing is rapid and virtually pain-free due to the use of the Solea laser. Unlike traditional frenectomy methods, there is no need for incisions, stitches, or extended recovery time. Patients can return to their daily routines immediately, with only minor aftercare needed.
For families and individuals in Wahpeton, ND, the availability of laser frenectomy services means access to gentle, modern solutions that truly improve oral health and day-to-day comfort. Dr. Schmidt is proud to offer this advanced treatment to patients of all ages, with personalized care that makes every experience safe and supportive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomies
Is the Solea laser frenectomy procedure painful?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. The Solea laser works without heat or vibration, making it gentle enough for infants and children.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire process usually takes just a few minutes. From start to finish, most appointments are completed in less than 30 minutes.
Will my child need anesthesia or sedation?
In many cases, no anesthesia is needed due to the comfort of the Solea laser. If needed, topical numbing gel may be applied for older children or adults.
Can a frenectomy fix my child’s speech issues?
If speech issues are related to tongue-tie or lip-tie, a frenectomy can significantly improve clarity and articulation. A speech therapist may still be recommended to reinforce habits after the procedure.
Is there a risk of the frenum reattaching?
There is a low risk if proper aftercare and exercises are followed. Dr. Schmidt provides specific instructions to ensure long-term success.
A Simple Procedure That Can Make a Big Difference
If you or your child has been living with oral restrictions that affect feeding, speaking, or comfort, a laser frenectomy may offer the solution you’ve been looking for. At The Clinic for Oral Health in Wahpeton, ND, Dr. Judith Schmidt combines clinical precision with the latest Solea laser technology to deliver comfortable, effective results with minimal recovery time.
Let us help you restore full function and ease to your daily life. Schedule a consultation today to find out if a laser frenectomy is right for you or your child. A small change can lead to significant improvement in how you eat, speak, and thrive.