Mom-Founded. Female-Owned. Family-Focused Care.
October 30, 2026
As a parent, few things cause more concern than seeing your child struggle to eat or drink comfortably. Whether it’s difficulty breastfeeding as an infant or picky eating habits that persist into toddlerhood and beyond, feeding challenges can cause frustration for both you and your child.
If you’ve been searching for solutions, you may have come across the term “frenectomy.” But can this procedure really make a difference for feeding problems past infancy? The short answer: Yes, in many cases, it can.
A frenectomy is a simple procedure that involves releasing a small band of tissue, called the frenulum, that may be restricting movement in the mouth. In children, this issue, commonly referred to as a tongue-tie or lip-tie, can interfere with proper oral function.
While tongue-tie is often recognized in infants due to breastfeeding challenges, its impact may continue to ripple through other stages of childhood if untreated. When the tongue or lips are restricted in their movement, it can affect chewing, swallowing, and even speech development.
Children with untreated ties might refuse to eat certain food textures, struggle to pronounce words clearly, or experience oral discomfort. A frenectomy can correct this by restoring full range of motion, making daily activities like eating and talking much easier and more comfortable.
When a child has limited tongue mobility, it can hinder their ability to move food inside the mouth effectively. This may result in gagging, choking, or avoiding certain solid foods altogether. After a frenectomy, parents often notice their child becomes more confident with a variety of food textures, promoting better nutrition and healthier eating habits.
Eating shouldn’t be a painful or frustrating experience for your child. Releasing a restrictive tie through a minimally invasive frenectomy can help eliminate tension and pressure in the muscles of the tongue and jaw, making meals more pleasant for your little one.
Believe it or not, speech and feeding are closely connected. The tongue plays a major role in forming sounds and words. If a restrictive tie is left untreated, children may find it difficult to articulate clearly or pronounce certain sounds, often leading to frustration. Addressing the issue early on with a frenectomy can pave the way for better communication and confidence in social settings.
At Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry, we use the advanced Solea CO2 laser for frenectomy procedures. This technology ensures a quick, precise, and virtually pain-free experience for your child. Many of our patients don’t even require anesthesia! With minimal discomfort and faster healing, parents are often relieved to see how seamless the procedure is.
When your child visits Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry for a frenectomy, we’ll focus on their comfort every step of the way. Using the Solea CO2 laser, Dr. Patel can gently release the tongue or lip tie in just a matter of minutes. This cutting-edge tool also minimizes bleeding and swelling, making the process smoother and less intimidating for your little one.
Because this procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is typically fast and straightforward. Parents are often amazed at how quickly their child returns to eating, talking, and smiling, often with noticeable improvements within days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a speedy recovery and are always here to answer any questions you may have.
Choosing a care provider for your child’s frenectomy can feel overwhelming, but Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry is proud to stand out in several key ways. Founded by mom and board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Neelon Patel, our practice is rooted in a deep understanding of both professional pediatric care and a parent’s perspective.
Dr. Patel’s advanced training and recognition as one of Incisal Edge’s “40 Under 40” showcase her dedication to providing modern, minimally invasive solutions that prioritize your child’s comfort and wellbeing.
Our Naperville office is also designed with kids and families in mind, featuring anxiety-reducing amenities like TVs at every chair, a cozy reading nook, and a nursing room. We strive to make every visit a positive, fun experience for both parents and children, because we know that happy, relaxed kids are more likely to develop lifelong healthy habits.
If your child exhibits any of the following signs, a full evaluation with Dr. Patel can help determine whether they may benefit from a frenectomy:
Every parent wants to see their child thrive, and at Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you suspect your child’s feeding issues or speech concerns could be related to a tongue or lip tie, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Neelon Patel.
With a gentle touch, state-of-the-art technology, and a warm, family-focused approach, we’ll work together to create a path toward happier mealtimes and improved oral health. Call us today at (630) 687-9292 or visit us in Naperville, IL to book your child’s appointment. Let’s make feeding (and smiling) a joyful experience again!
We accept all PPO insurance plans. We do not accept Medicaid or HMO policies. For our uninsured patients, ask us about our Membership Plan, Pinky Perks!
