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Frenectomy in Tinley Park, IL

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A tight or misplaced frenum, the small band of tissue connecting the lip or tongue to the gum, can cause a range of problems including gum recession, gaps between teeth, difficulty speaking, and restricted tongue movement. A frenectomy is a simple, effective procedure that removes or repositions this tissue to eliminate these issues.

At North Creek Dental Care, board-certified periodontist Dr. Charles H. Goodman performs frenectomies for both children and adults throughout the Tinley Park and Southland area. Our periodontist in Tinley Park provides gentle, precise care so patients can move forward with confidence, and North Creek Dental Care is a proud two-time Southland’s Best Dental Office winner for 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Complimentary Consultations Available

Frenectomy by a Board-Certified Periodontist in Tinley Park

Dr. Charles Goodman DDS MS performs frenectomies for children and adults at North Creek Dental Care -- correcting lip and tongue ties that affect speech, eating, and gum health, without an outside referral.

  • Board-certified periodontist on staff -- no referral needed
  • Lip and tongue tie correction for all ages
  • Most PPO insurance accepted -- financing available
Request a Consultation(708) 532-4131
Frenectomy consultation at North Creek Dental Care in Tinley Park
Dental treatment technology used during a frenectomy consultation

Tongue Ties and Lip Ties Explained

A tongue tie, known clinically as ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenum beneath the tongue is too tight or too short, limiting how far the tongue can move. A lip tie is a similar restriction affecting the labial frenum that connects the lip to the gums. Both conditions can occur on their own or together, and both can affect function at any age.

Patient smiling during a dental consultation at North Creek Dental Care

Signs a Frenectomy May Be Needed

The signs of a restrictive frenum look different depending on age:

  • Infants may have difficulty latching or feeding effectively
  • Children may show speech difficulties or a visible gap between the front teeth
  • Adults may experience gum recession, restricted tongue movement, or discomfort from a tight frenum

According to the National Institutes of Health, frenotomy remains the most common procedure used to correct these restrictions when treatment is appropriate for the individual patient.

Patient receiving frenectomy treatment at North Creek Dental Care

What the Procedure Involves

A frenectomy is a brief procedure performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Goodman releases the restrictive tissue using precise techniques suited to the location and thickness of the frenum, and the active release itself typically takes only a few minutes.

Comfortable dental treatment environment at North Creek Dental Care

Recovery After a Frenectomy

Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days, and soft tissue healing generally takes one to two weeks. Sticking to soft, cool foods for the first few days and following any recommended stretching exercises helps support a smooth recovery and reduces the chance of the tissue reattaching.

Notice a Feeding, Speech, or Gum Issue?

What to Do if You Suspect a Tongue or Lip Tie

If you notice feeding difficulties in an infant, speech concerns in a child, or gum recession potentially linked to a tight frenum in an adult, schedule a periodontal evaluation with Dr. Goodman. When a tight frenum has already contributed to gum recession, gum grafting may also be recommended alongside the frenectomy to fully restore the area.

Schedule Your Evaluation
Happy senior couple enjoying time together after dental treatment

Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a brief procedure performed under local anesthesia, so patients are comfortable during treatment. Mild soreness for a few days afterward is normal and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Most patients heal within one to two weeks. Following soft-food and stretching recommendations during recovery helps the tissue heal properly and reduces the chance of reattachment.
A tongue tie affects the lingual frenum beneath the tongue, while a lip tie affects the labial frenum connecting the lip to the gums. The two conditions can occur separately or together, and both are addressed with a frenectomy.
Not always, but a persistent gap or difficulty speaking clearly can be signs worth having evaluated. Dr. Goodman can determine whether a frenectomy is appropriate for your child during a consultation.
Yes. Adults with a restrictive frenum can experience gum recession, discomfort, or restricted tongue movement, and a frenectomy can be performed at any age to address these issues.
Many PPO dental insurance plans provide coverage for frenectomy procedures, particularly when a functional issue such as feeding or speech difficulty is documented. Our team can help verify your specific benefits, and we also accept CareCredit, Proceed Finance, and HSA and FSA accounts.

Schedule Your Frenectomy Consultation at North Creek Dental Care

Whether a frenum is affecting your child’s speech development or causing gum recession in an adult, Dr. Goodman has the training and experience to resolve the issue efficiently. Our team will walk you through every step of the process so you know exactly what to expect. Contact our office today to schedule your frenectomy consultation and find out how this straightforward procedure can make a meaningful difference.

Child smiling during pediatric dental visit at North Creek Dental Care in Tinley Park

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