Adult

Tongue- & Lip-Tie Care

Restoring function for speech, eating, airway health, and long-term wellness.

Many adults live with the effects of tongue- or lip-ties without realizing the cause. These restrictions can contribute to jaw and neck tension, speech fatigue, swallowing difficulties, and even sleep disruptions. With a precise CO₂ laser release, we help restore movement and comfort, supporting long-term health and everyday function.

A tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) or lip-tie occurs when the band of tissue (frenum) under the tongue or lip is too short, tight, or restrictive. In adults, these tethered oral tissues can limit movement and contribute to a variety of functional challenges — even if they’ve gone unnoticed for years.

What is a tongue-tie or lip-tie?

Anatomical illustration of adult tongue‑tie (ankyloglossia)

Unlike infants, where feeding concerns are often the first clue, adults may experience tension, speech fatigue, or sleep issues. In some cases, ties also affect orthodontic stability and jaw health. A proper evaluation can determine whether a release may help restore comfort and function.

Common Signs of Tongue-Tie in Adults

Only a full in-clinic assessment can confirm a tongue-tie, but you may notice patterns in your day-to-day comfort, speech, or oral function:

  • Difficulty lifting or moving the tongue freely

  • Trouble speaking clearly, especially with certain sounds

  • Jaw or neck tension from compensating for restricted tongue movement

  • Clicking or popping in the jaw (TMJ symptoms)

  • Mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep-disordered breathing

  • Ongoing dental issues such as gum recession, gaps, or crowding

  • Challenges with oral hygiene or cleaning teeth effectively

  • Discomfort or limitation with eating, swallowing, or kissing

These patterns can stem from many causes. Oral Myofunctional Therapists, Speech-language pathologists, and sleep specialists can all help pinpoint contributing factors — and we assess for ties when appropriate.

Your visit is efficient, respectful of your time, and designed with your comfort in mind. In most cases, we complete both consultation and treatment in a single 60-minute appointment.

Our approach at Otter Oral Care

Dr. Michael Dienberg and Bethany Dienberg, Otter Oral Care

For adults, we use local anesthetic with every procedure to ensure comfort from start to finish. The CO₂ laser allows for a precise release with minimal bleeding, reduced risk of infection, and a faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

Because tongue-ties affect more than just the mouth, we often collaborate with oral myofunctional therapists, speech-language pathologists, and sleep specialists. This team-based approach helps ensure long-term improvements in speech, airway health, and oral function. If you already work with a provider, we’ll coordinate closely. If not, we can connect you with trusted professionals who understand tongue-tie care in adults.

For some adults, especially those with more severe restrictions or long-standing compensation patterns, we may recommend a phased approach — addressing the tightest areas first, then reassessing function before additional release. This helps support comfort, adaptation, and long-term improvement without overwhelming the system.

What to expect on release day

  1. Settle in – We begin with a review of your health history and goals for treatment. You’ll have time to ask questions and get comfortable before we begin.

  2. After-care review – Before the procedure, we’ll walk through your stretching and healing plan, demonstrating techniques so you feel confident at home. Written instructions and a care tracker are provided for ongoing support.

  3. Numbing – Both topical and local anesthetic are applied to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible from start to finish.

  4. Release – The CO₂ laser treatment is precise and efficient. Total time varies depending on tissue characteristics and your individual needs, but most releases are completed within minutes.

  5. Recover & transition – You’re welcome to rest briefly in our entry area afterward. We’ll check in to be sure you’re steady and well-prepared before you leave.

After-care and stretching

Comfort and healing

  • Some soreness and swelling are normal for the first few days.

  • Over-the-counter pain relief, ice water, and saltwater rinses can help.

  • Healing happens gradually — tissue often looks white/yellow during repair.

Stretching exercises

  • Begin 24-hours after procedure OR once stitches have dissolved (typically 3–4 days post-op).

  • Stretches help prevent reattachment and encourage proper tongue mobility.

  • Aim for 3 sessions per day, holding each stretch for 3 seconds, for 3-4 weeks

  • We’ll demonstrate in-office, and you’ll have written instructions to follow.

Additional support

  • Oral Myofunctional Therapy (OMT), speech therapy, or bodywork may be recommended to retrain habits and improve long-term outcomes.

  • Healing is both physical and functional — integrating therapy leads to the best results.

Tracking progress

  • Use your provided care tracker to record stretches and symptoms.

  • If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty performing exercises, contact our team right away.

If you suspect a tongue- or lip-tie may be affecting your oral health, speech, sleep, or comfort, we’re here to help.
At Otter Oral Care, we’ll walk with you from assessment through treatment and recovery, coordinating care with trusted providers when needed.

Schedule your consultation today — and take the first step toward better oral function and overall well-being.

Ready to take the next step?

Adult Frenectomy: Common Questions

  • We use both topical and local anesthesia to keep the release itself comfortable. Most patients report feeling only pressure or vibration from the laser, not pain. Afterward, it’s normal to have soreness for a few days as tissue heals. We’ll review pain management options and soothing strategies before you leave our office.

  • Stick to cool, soft foods for the first 48 hours — think smoothies, yogurt, or soups cooled to room temperature. As healing progresses, move into mashable foods, then normal textures when it feels comfortable. Avoid crunchy, acidic, or spicy foods that may irritate the site. Choosing nutrient-dense meals supports faster recovery. We’ll send you home with detailed food guidelines upon request.

  • Most adults notice tissue healing in 1 week.. Functional improvements like easier speech, better swallowing, or less tension can happen gradually as the tongue adjusts to its new range of motion, about 1-3 weeks. Progress isn’t always linear — consistency with stretches and exercises makes a big difference. In some cases, we use a staged approach to release and healing, allowing muscles and function to adapt gradually. This can make recovery smoother and support better long-term results.

  • Many adults are able to resume light daily activities, including office work, within a day or two. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or intense workouts are best delayed for several days to avoid bleeding or swelling. We’ll give you individualized guidance at your visit.

  • Many adults benefit from oral myofunctional therapy or bodywork such as physical therapy or chiropractic care. These providers can help retrain muscle patterns and optimize long-term results. While not required, collaborating with other specialists often improves comfort and function prior to and after release.

  • It’s normal to feel apprehensive. We’ll take time to explain each step, answer your questions, and move at a pace you’re comfortable with. Comfort items, supportive positioning, and even watching a show during the procedure can help. If you’re especially anxious, let us know — together we can create a plan that makes the experience manageable.