Dr. Andersons 10 year old patient (pictured above) presented to Anderson Periodontal Wellness for a same day consultation and laser frenectomy of the upper lip. See above for before and immediately (1minute) after the frenectomy. This 20 second laser procedure does not usually require traditional anesthetic “numbing shorts” but rather topical anesthetic “numbing jelly” prior to laser use. “CC” tolerated the frenectomy very well and her parents reported no bleeding, pain or change in activity after the procedure!
What Is a Frenum and Why Might It Need Treatment?
A “frenum” is a small band of muscle and connective tissue found in three key locations of the mouth: the upper lip, lower lip, and under the tongue. For some patients—especially children—this tissue may attach too tightly or in a non-ideal position. When this happens, it can create both developmental and functional concerns, including speech issues, orthodontic complications, gum recession, or difficulty with breastfeeding in infants.
To address this, a frenectomy can be performed. This simple, fast, and precise treatment repositions or removes the frenum using advanced laser technology. At Anderson Periodontal Wellness in Bloomfield Hills, Dr. Lauren Anderson uses the ER:YSGG Waterlase laser—a gentle and non-invasive method that eliminates the need for scalpels or sutures, and dramatically improves patient comfort and healing.
Laser Frenectomy: A Quick and Comfortable Solution
A frenectomy at our practice typically takes just 20 to 40 seconds using the Waterlase laser. This high-tech method allows Dr. Anderson to move the frenum to a more anatomical location without traditional cutting or bleeding. Unlike traditional blade-based techniques, laser frenectomies are virtually pain-free, often performed with only topical “numbing jelly” instead of injections, and result in faster healing with minimal to no downtime.
Patients of all ages—infants, children, and adults—can benefit from frenectomy when an abnormal frenum attachment is affecting function or development. Below, we outline common areas of concern and how frenectomy can provide an effective and lasting solution.
Tongue Tie (Lingual Frenectomy)
The frenum under the tongue, when overly tight or short, can restrict movement—a condition known as ankyloglossia or “tongue tie.” This can interfere with basic functions such as:
Breastfeeding and latching in newborns
Speech development and articulation in toddlers and children
Swallowing and airway formation as the child grows
An oral examination, ideally at birth or within the first few weeks of life, can identify a tongue tie early. With a laser frenectomy, Dr. Anderson can correct the restriction with a safe, swift procedure that supports proper oral and airway development, helping infants feed more effectively and reducing future orofacial complications.
Upper Lip Tie (Maxillary Frenum)
When the frenum connecting the upper lip to the gum is too low or thick, it may cause a diastema (space) between the front teeth. This can lead to:
Gaps that resist orthodontic closure
Relapse of spacing after braces
Impacted craniofacial growth in severe cases
In many cases, frenectomy is recommended in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to help maintain the space closure achieved with braces. By removing the excess tissue, we allow the teeth to stay in alignment more easily, supporting a more stable, long-term smile.
Lower Lip Frenum and Gum Recession
When the frenum below the lower lip is positioned too high on the gums, it can exert constant pulling forces on the soft tissue, leading to:
Gum recession
Tissue detachment
Mucogingival defects
If identified early, a laser frenectomy can stop the progression of gum loss and prevent the need for future grafting procedures. This preventive approach is a key aspect of modern periodontics—preserving natural gum tissue and maintaining long-term stability.
Real Patient Story: Same-Day Laser Frenectomy for a Young Patient
Dr. Anderson’s 10-year-old patient “CC” (pictured above) came to Anderson Periodontal Wellness for a same-day consultation and upper lip frenectomy. Using only topical anesthetic, Dr. Anderson completed the entire procedure in just 20 seconds using the Waterlase laser. There was no bleeding, no pain, and no change in activity level post-treatment.
Immediately after treatment, the patient’s lip had more freedom of movement, and the procedure was so gentle that no numbing injections were needed. CC’s parents were thrilled with how well she tolerated the process and how quickly she recovered.
Laser frenectomy is an ideal option for pediatric patients—quick, stress-free, and effective in preventing long-term developmental or orthodontic challenges.
Experience Comfortable, Modern Frenectomy Care in Bloomfield Hills
Whether for your child or yourself, a laser frenectomy can resolve a range of concerns—from speech delays and latching difficulty to orthodontic relapse or gum health issues. As a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, Dr. Lauren Anderson combines advanced training with compassionate, patient-centered care.
To schedule your consultation, please call (248) 480-4910. Anderson Periodontal Wellness proudly serves Birmingham, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, West Bloomfield, Royal Oak, Ferndale, and the surrounding Oakland County communities.
