Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie Release for Northeast Florida Families
Gentle laser frenectomy to support feeding success, comfort, and healthy oral development for infants and children.
Schedule EvaluationUnderstanding Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie: Gentle Laser Treatment
If your baby is having trouble feeding, seems uncomfortable during nursing or bottle feeding, or you're experiencing pain while breastfeeding, a tongue-tie or lip-tie may be part of the issue. These common oral restrictions can affect how the tongue or lip moves — and early treatment can make a meaningful difference for both babies and parents.
At Little Smiles Children's Dentistry, we provide gentle laser treatment using Waterlase™ technology in a calm, child-focused environment. With locations providing tongue-tie treatment in St. Augustine and tongue-tie and lip-tie release in Palm Coast, we serve families throughout Northeast Florida.
New to pediatric dentistry? Learn more about what to expect during your first visit or explore our comprehensive preventive dental care services.
What is a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie?
A tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue under the tongue is too tight, limiting movement. A lip-tie happens when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums restricts proper movement. Both conditions are common and treatable with laser frenectomy.
Recognizing Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie Symptoms
Signs in Infants & Newborns
- Difficulty latching or staying latched
- Clicking sounds while feeding
- Gassiness or excessive air intake
- Poor weight gain or slow feeding
- Maternal pain during breastfeeding
- Nipple damage or compression
Impact on Children & Teens
Untreated ties can affect speech development (particularly L, R, T, D sounds), jaw development, and dental hygiene. We offer gentle sedation options for older anxious patients to ensure comfort during treatment.
Advanced Waterlase™ Laser Technology
We use the Waterlase iPlus laser system, which uses precise water energy instead of traditional scissors or scalpels. Benefits include little to no bleeding, no stitches required, faster healing, and immediate feeding capability.
The Waterlase™ Difference
We use the Biolase Waterlase iPlus, a specialized laser that uses water energy to release the tissue. It is not a "hot" laser, making it the safest choice for infants.
❄️ Cool & Gentle
Uses water spray to keep tissue cool. No burning or heat.
⚡️ Fast Healing
Cauterizes as it works, meaning little to no bleeding and no stitches.
⏱️ Quick Procedure
The release takes a few minutes. Infants can often nurse immediately after.
Comfort Options for Laser Frenectomy
For anxious children, we offer safe sedation options when appropriate to ensure a positive dental experience.
Visit Us at Either Location
Choose the office most convenient for your family. Both locations offer the same expert care and advanced Waterlase technology.
St. Augustine Office
Serving: Anastasia Island, Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, World Golf Village, and historic downtown St. Augustine families.
📍 1301 Plantation Island Dr, Ste 305
St. Augustine, FL 32080
Palm Coast Office
Serving: Cypress Point, Hammock Dunes, Flagler Beach, Palm Coast Plantation, and European Village area families.
📍 105 Cypress Point Pkwy, Ste D
Palm Coast, FL 32164
Parents Love Little Smiles
"My son had tongue procedure and Dr. Cruz did great! Love all the ladies that work up front. Super kid friendly and welcoming office."
"My son recently had a frenectomy done... exceptional. We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Dr. Cruz and the entire staff!"
"From the moment we walk in, the staff is kind, patient, and wonderful with kids. Dr. Cruz and Dr. Natalia helped our son feel comfortable after a traumatic fall, and every visit since has been a great experience. We’ve since had three tongue-tie releases, along with cleanings and X-rays, and our children truly feel cared for. The entire team is amazing, and Angela at the front desk always makes us feel remembered and welcomed."
Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue-Tie & Lip-Tie Treatment
Is laser frenectomy painful for infants?
Laser frenectomy using Waterlase™ is gentle and precise. Most infants experience minimal discomfort, little to no bleeding, and can often feed immediately after the procedure. The laser technology allows for a faster, more comfortable experience than traditional scissors or scalpel methods.
How long does healing take?
Healing typically occurs within one to two weeks. Gentle stretches and follow-up guidance help ensure proper healing and improved function. The laser promotes faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
Do babies need therapy after treatment?
Some infants benefit from feeding therapy or bodywork to retrain tongue movement. We guide parents on whether additional support is recommended based on your baby's individual needs and feeding patterns.
What are signs my baby has a tongue-tie?
Common signs include difficulty latching or staying latched during feeding, clicking sounds while nursing, gassiness or excessive air intake, poor weight gain, and maternal pain during breastfeeding. If you notice these symptoms, schedule an evaluation with our pediatric dentist.
What is Waterlase technology?
Waterlase iPlus is an advanced laser system that uses water energy for precision cutting. This means little to no bleeding, no stitches required, faster healing times, and a more comfortable experience for infants and children.
Can older children benefit from treatment?
Yes! Untreated tongue-ties can affect speech development (particularly L, R, T, and D sounds), jaw development, and dental hygiene in older children. We offer sedation options for anxious patients to ensure comfort.
Related Pediatric Dental Services
Preventive Care
Regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect your child's smile.
Learn More →Sedation Options
Safe sedation dentistry for anxious children or complex procedures.
Explore Sedation →Emergency Dental Care
Prompt care for dental emergencies, accidents, and urgent pediatric dental needs.
Emergency Guide →Ready to Help Your Child Thrive?
Schedule a specialized tongue-tie evaluation with our board-certified pediatric dentists to discuss your concerns and see if a laser frenectomy is right for your child.
Book Consultation
Serving families throughout Northeast Florida with locations in St. Augustine and Palm Coast.