Infant Frenectomy

Feeding a baby comfortably

And efficiently is the most important aspect of a newborn’s life and a precious experience for a new mom. A normal frenum is a connective band bringing two soft tissue pieces together. In some cases, if that band connects too low or tight it may result in a condition known as a Tongue-Tie or a Lip-Tie. These conditions can jeopardize the beautiful nursing relationship between a mother and her newborn. If the frenum attaches too low or too tight, the tissue can become restrictive in nature, similar to how webbed fingers can become restricted with extra skin attaching to high. Imagine how a surgical release of webbed tissue allows fingers to be free and function well. A frenectomy procedure allows a baby to freely use their lip and tongue for an efficient, effective, and comfortable feeding experience.

Why do we seem to be seeing more Tongue-Ties?

Lip and Tongue-Ties are not a new problem. In fact, a Lip or Tongue-Tie is one of the main reasons given to Moms to wean her child to a bottle instead of breastfeeding. However, in the past decade, there has been increased awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding. This awareness has allowed breastfeeding to become more popular again, while also bringing more attention to the problems associated with breastfeeding, such as Lip and Tongue-Ties.

How are Tongue-Ties and Lip-Ties treated today?

Thanks to the great advances in laser technology, most technologically-savvy and up-to-date healthcare providers are educated on the laser’s properties and why they are highly favorable in soft tissue procedures. Dr. Rishita’s expertise in using Waterlaser allows her to provide desensitization, coagulation and cooling as it separates the tissue. The laser light beam is precisely controlled for the most thorough and safe procedure. Waterlaser virtually eliminates the need for scalpel, sutures, or anesthetic in infant frenectomy cases. The newborns we treat can feed immediately after the procedure for comfort. Moms report significant difference in personal comfort, baby’s consumption, and efficiency while nursing or bottle feeding.

Consequences of Untreated Lip and Tongue-Ties


Team approach for long-term success


Why Smile Wonders?

Dr. Rishita is a well-known expert provider skilled and experienced in providing laser frenectomy. She enjoys the trust of her peers and colleagues when they refer their most complex cases to her care. She has achieved the Advanced Laser Proficiency Certification from the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Her expertise in using Waterlaser safely and effectively is recognized by the World Clinical Laser Institute with their highest Mastership Certification. She has helped improve the quality of life of her patients including infants as young as 2 days old, who are struggling with challenges of nursing due to Lip or Tongue-Tie issues, as well as children with special health care or behavioral needs. Dr. Jaju strives to stay current with the state of the art techniques and technologies. Her most recent achievement has been completing the training in Oral Myofunctional Therapy and Certification course as a Breastfeeding Specialist. Dr. Rishita provides numerous seminars and training for introducing and promoting infant oral health, pediatric dentistry and benefits of laser applications to general dentists, pediatricians, lactation consultants, speech pathologists as well as the providers of the Infant Toddler Connection programs. When you meet her you’ll know why babies love her and parents trust her!

Day of Procedure Instructions

Day After Procedure Instructions

Oral motor function & suck training