Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that may seem minor at first glance—but it can have lasting impacts on speech, oral function, and overall health. Whether diagnosed in infants, children, or even adults, a tongue tie can interfere with daily life in significant ways. Fortunately, treatment is simple and effective with a procedure called a frenectomy.
At St. Andrew’s Dental Centre in Aurora, we offer gentle, safe, and effective tongue tie release procedures using modern techniques and compassionate care. Whether your child is struggling with feeding, or you’re experiencing speech or mobility issues yourself, we’re here to help restore natural function and comfort.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum—the thin band of tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is too short, tight, or thick. This restricts the natural movement of the tongue and can lead to difficulties with:
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding (in infants)
- Speech articulation (especially sounds like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r”)
- Eating/swallowing certain foods
- Oral hygiene (difficulty sweeping food from teeth with the tongue)
- Sleep disturbances or snoring (from poor tongue posture)
- Orthodontic issues and airway development
Tongue ties are often diagnosed in infancy but may be overlooked until later in childhood or even adulthood.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that involves removing or loosening the restrictive tissue (frenulum) under the tongue to allow for greater range of motion. It’s sometimes also used to treat lip ties—when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight.
At St. Andrew’s Dental Centre in Aurora, we use modern techniques and instruments to perform gentle, precise frenectomies. In many cases, this procedure is done with a soft tissue laser for minimal discomfort, reduced bleeding, and faster healing.
Signs You or Your Child May Need a Tongue Tie Release
Some signs of a restrictive tongue tie may include:
In Infants:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Inadequate weight gain
- Colic or frequent fussiness
- Maternal nipple pain or damage
In Children:
- Delayed or unclear speech development
- Trouble with certain speech sounds
- Difficulty sticking the tongue out past the lower lip
- Challenges with eating solid foods or swallowing
In Adults:
- Speech difficulties or fatigue when speaking
- Jaw pain or tension
- Poor oral posture or tongue mobility
- Sleep apnea or snoring
- Gum recession caused by a tight lip or tongue tie
If you suspect a tongue tie is affecting you or your child’s quality of life, schedule an evaluation at our Aurora dental clinic. We’ll assess the issue and recommend whether a frenectomy is the right solution.
Benefits of a Tongue Tie Release
A frenectomy can dramatically improve oral function and quality of life. Some benefits of tongue tie release include:
- Improved breastfeeding for infants and nursing mothers
- Better speech development and clarity
- Easier eating and swallowing
- Enhanced tongue posture and breathing
- Reduced tension in the jaw and neck
- Easier brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene
- Prevention of long-term orthodontic or airway issues
The procedure is quick, and recovery is generally smooth with proper aftercare.
Frenectomy at St. Andrew’s Dental Centre – What to Expect
At St. Andrew’s Dental Centre in Aurora, we ensure that every step of the frenectomy process is explained clearly and handled with care.
Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation
We begin with a thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and oral anatomy. For infants, we’ll work closely with your pediatrician or lactation consultant when needed. For older children and adults, we may recommend working with a speech therapist or myofunctional therapist before or after the procedure for the best outcomes.
Step 2: Laser Frenectomy (When Appropriate)
Using a precise dental laser, we release the tight frenulum with minimal discomfort and bleeding. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes and is performed right in our office. Laser treatment promotes faster healing and reduces the need for sutures.
Step 3: Post-Procedure Care & Exercises
After the release, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to care for the area and reduce the chance of reattachment. This may include gentle stretching exercises and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Why Choose St. Andrew’s Dental Centre in Aurora?
We understand that any surgical procedure—especially for infants or young children—can feel overwhelming for families. That’s why we offer a welcoming, professional environment with compassionate care from start to finish.
Families throughout Aurora trust us for:
- Experienced, gentle care tailored to all ages
- Advanced tools and laser technology
- Clear communication and guidance
- Personalized follow-up care to ensure successful healing
With over 20 years serving the Aurora community, St. Andrew’s Dental Centre is proud to be a trusted partner in your family’s oral health journey.
Book a Tongue Tie Consultation Today
If you or your child are experiencing the symptoms of a tongue tie, don’t wait to seek help. A simple frenectomy could be the key to better feeding, clearer speech, and improved comfort.
📞 Call us today at (905) 727-4243 to schedule your consultation
📍 Visit us at: 2 Orchard Heights Blvd #33, Aurora, ON L4G 3W3
St. Andrew’s Dental Centre in Aurora—where your comfort, health, and smile come first.