frenectomy
Tongue-tie and lip-tie release for children and adults
A tongue tie or lip tie is more common than most people realize, and its effects reach well beyond the mouth. Dr. Lena Sapozhnikoff performs laser frenectomies for patients of all ages, from six years old to adults who have spent years quietly compensating for a restriction they may not have even known they had.
What is a tongue tie and what does it affect?
A tongue tie occurs when the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short or tight, limiting how freely the tongue can move. A similar restriction can affect the lip, known as a lip tie. When the tongue can't move and rest where it should, the effects go far beyond speech. A properly positioned tongue acts as natural scaffolding for the developing palate, and without it, the jaw and dental arches may not grow as they should, often leading to crowding, bite issues, and the need for later orthodontic intervention.
Signs that tongue or lip tie may be a factor include:
Signs that tongue or lip tie may be a factor include:
- Speech delays or articulation challenges
- Picky eating or difficulty with certain food textures
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Snoring or disrupted sleep
- Crowded teeth or a narrow palate
- Neck, jaw, or postural tension in adults
- Open mouth resting posture
- Difficulty with oral hygiene or gum recession
What does the procedure involve?
Dr. Lena performs frenectomies using a soft-tissue laser, which is significantly more precise and comfortable than traditional scissor or scalpel methods. The laser cauterizes as it works, meaning minimal bleeding, less swelling, and no stitches. For older children and adults, a local anesthetic ensures a completely comfortable experience. Most patients return to normal activity the same day.
What makes Dr. Lena's approach different?
For older children and adults, Dr. Lena partners with a myofunctional therapist before the frenectomy. The goal is to build tongue strength and awareness in advance so patients know where their tongue should lift and rest before the restriction is released. When the frenectomy and myofunctional therapy work together, the outcome is significantly better than either approach alone. This reflects Dr. Lena's broader philosophy: treating the root cause, not just the visible symptom. Tongue tie is often connected to airway health, jaw development, and orthodontic concerns, areas where her training in MASPE/MARPE palatal expansion and functional orthodontics makes her uniquely equipped to see and address the full picture.
Why choose Dr. Lena for Frenectomy?
Dr. Lena Sapozhnikoff trained at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and has pursued extensive continuing education in airway health, functional orthodontics, and pediatric growth and development. Her approach to tongue tie and lip tie isn't limited to the procedure itself – she understands how frenum restrictions connect to breathing, jaw growth, and long-term oral health in a way that few general practitioners do. For patients and families navigating this diagnosis, that depth of knowledge makes a meaningful difference.