Gentle Soft-Tissue Care
Frenectomy in Fox Point, Wisconsin
Comfort-focused lip- and tongue-tie treatment at Port Road Dental.
Restricted lip or tongue movement can affect feeding, speech, and everyday comfort at any age. At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, we provide gentle frenectomy treatment to carefully release tight tissue and improve function. Our team explains every step, puts comfort first, and tailors care to the unique needs of infants, children, and adults.
Frenectomy
Frenectomy at Port Road Dental
Frenectomy is a small procedure that releases a tight band of tissue (a “tie”) under the lip or tongue so the mouth can move more freely. At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, we focus on gentle techniques, clear communication, and personalized follow-up so you and your family feel confident from consultation through healing.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy removes or reshapes a small fold of tissue called a frenum when it is too short, thick, or tight. This can relieve a “tongue-tie” or “lip-tie” that makes nursing, eating, speaking, or cleaning teeth more difficult. The procedure is typically quick, uses local anesthetic, and is designed to improve both function and long-term oral health.
- Lip-Tie Release Frees a tight upper or lower lip so it can move more comfortably.
- Tongue-Tie Release Improves tongue mobility for clearer speech, easier swallowing, and better oral hygiene.
- Care for Infants, Children, and Adults Treatment plans are customized to age, symptoms, and overall oral health.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Most frenectomies are completed in a single visit. We gently numb the area, carefully release or reshape the tight tissue, and provide you with simple aftercare instructions. Mild soreness or swelling is common for a day or two and usually managed with over-the-counter comfort measures. Our team will show you how to keep the area clean and may recommend gentle stretching exercises to support proper healing.
- Thoughtful numbing and a calm, child-friendly approach to help reduce anxiety.
- Precise soft-tissue techniques designed to minimize bleeding and speed recovery.
- Customized home-care and follow-up so you know exactly what to expect at each step.
Is a Frenectomy Right for You or Your Child?
Signs that a frenectomy may help include difficulty nursing or bottle feeding, challenges with certain speech sounds, mouth breathing, a gap between the front teeth, or a lip or tongue that seems “tethered.” Every smile is different, so an in-person exam is the best way to know for sure. If you are concerned about a possible lip- or tongue-tie, call our team at (414) 351-6300 to schedule a frenectomy evaluation at Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin. We will review your options, discuss costs and insurance benefits, and help you decide on the best next step.
Frenectomy: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a frenectomy?
- A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases a tight band of tissue under the lip or tongue when it restricts normal movement. By easing this tension, it can improve feeding, speech, and comfort.
- How do I know if my child needs a frenectomy?
- Common signs include trouble latching during nursing, clicking sounds while feeding, difficulty gaining weight, or challenges making certain speech sounds as they grow. Our dentists will evaluate the frenum, bite, and overall function to determine if treatment is recommended.
- Is a frenectomy painful?
- We use gentle numbing to keep you or your child as comfortable as possible. You may notice brief pressure or tugging, but most patients describe the procedure itself as quick and very manageable. Mild soreness afterward usually improves within a day or two.
- How long does healing take?
- Initial healing typically takes just a few days, with full soft-tissue healing over one to two weeks. We will give you simple instructions for cleaning the area and, when appropriate, stretching exercises to help prevent the tissue from tightening again.
- Will a frenectomy fix speech issues right away?
- Some patients notice immediate improvement in tongue movement, but speech patterns may take time to change. Many children benefit from combining frenectomy with speech therapy so they can relearn sounds with their new range of motion.
- Can adults benefit from a frenectomy?
- Yes. Adults may seek frenectomy to reduce tension on the gums, improve denture or aligner comfort, or address long-standing speech or swallowing concerns. We will review your goals and overall oral health before recommending treatment.
- Are there risks or side effects?
- As with any procedure, there is a small risk of bleeding, infection, or scar tissue. These complications are uncommon, and our team takes careful steps to keep you safe. If you notice unusual swelling, pain, or bleeding, contact Port Road Dental right away.
- Will my insurance cover a frenectomy?
- Coverage varies by plan and by whether the procedure is billed as dental or medical. Our team will help you understand your benefits, provide a cost estimate, and discuss payment options before treatment is scheduled.
- How do I schedule a frenectomy consultation?
- To find out if a frenectomy is right for you or your child, call (414) 351-6300 or contact Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin. We will start with a gentle exam, answer your questions, and outline a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Zach Wehner
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Dr. James Markenson
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“Comfortable & Caring”
“Port Road Dental made me feel completely at ease from the moment I walked in. Everyone was friendly, gentle, and took the time to explain each step. I’ve never felt more comfortable at a dental office.”
“Exceptional Every Visit”
“Every appointment at Port Road Dental is smooth, professional, and stress-free. The team is patient, attentive, and truly focused on my comfort. I always leave feeling confident about my care.”
