Tongue-tie is more common than many parents realise, and it can make breastfeeding painful and frustrating for both mum and baby. At First Choice Dental, Dr Henry offers gentle laser tongue-tie release for infants and children — a quick procedure with fast healing and immediate results.
Also known as ankyloglossia, tongue-tie occurs when the thin strip of tissue (the frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter or tighter than normal, restricting the tongue's range of movement.
Tongue-tie affects up to 10% of newborns. While some cases are mild and resolve on their own, many cause significant difficulties with breastfeeding, speech development, and eating — issues that can persist into childhood if left untreated.
Early diagnosis and treatment can make a remarkable difference. Many mothers notice an improvement in their baby's latch within the first feed after the procedure.
Tongue-tie presents differently depending on age. Here are the signs parents and carers should watch for.
Dr Henry uses a soft-tissue dental laser to release the tongue-tie. This modern approach offers significant advantages over traditional scissors or scalpel methods.
Typically completed in just a few minutes
The laser cauterises as it works, reducing bleeding significantly
Most babies can feed immediately after the procedure
Laser treatment rarely requires sutures
A careful, compassionate process from assessment to aftercare.
Dr Henry carefully examines the frenulum, discusses feeding or speech concerns with you, and determines whether a release will help. Not every tongue-tie needs treatment — we only recommend it when it will make a genuine difference.
The laser frenectomy takes just minutes. For infants, topical anaesthetic is applied to minimise discomfort. For older children, local anaesthetic ensures a pain-free experience.
We provide simple stretching exercises to prevent reattachment and schedule a follow-up to check healing. For babies, you can breastfeed immediately after the procedure.
Answers to the questions parents ask most.
Tongue-tie can be treated at any age, from newborns to older children. For breastfeeding difficulties, earlier treatment generally leads to faster improvement. We see babies as young as a few days old.
We apply topical anaesthetic before the procedure and the laser itself takes only seconds. Babies may cry briefly from being held still, but most settle quickly and can breastfeed straight away for comfort. Parents consistently tell us their baby recovered faster than expected.
No referral is required. You can book an assessment directly with us. However, we often work alongside lactation consultants, midwives, and speech pathologists to ensure the most comprehensive care for your child.
Reattachment can occasionally occur if aftercare stretches are not performed as directed. We provide clear instructions and a follow-up appointment to monitor healing and ensure the release is maintained.
We provide transparent pricing at your consultation. The cost depends on the complexity of the case. Health fund rebates may apply, and we offer payment plans through Mac Credit if needed.
AHPRA Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with treatment, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Book an assessment with Dr Henry. A quick, gentle examination can determine whether your child would benefit from a laser frenectomy.
