Updated September 15, 2025.
Breastfeeding provides your baby with more than nutrition. It’s also an invaluable, shared bonding experience. Sometimes, however, many new parents face frustration and anxiety on discovering their baby struggles to feed properly. What can you do to save your growing family from this stressful situation?
At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Bret and our outstanding team are dedicated to correcting babies’ tongue and lip ties via safe, precise laser frenectomy, to ensure comfortable and effective nursing and development.
What Are Lip Ties and Tongue Ties?
Lip or tongue ties stem from overly tight oral tissue (called a frenum) that restricts the upper lip or tongue movement. This issue is more common than most parents realize and interferes with breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and even speech development. Common signs of lip or tongue ties include:
- Difficulty latching
- Especially gassy or fussy feedings
- A clicking sound when nursing
- Lagging weight gain
- Long feedings that leave your baby unsatisfied
- Pain for the mother while breastfeeding
Why Choose a Laser Frenectomy?
Unlike traditional surgery, laser frenectomies are fast, minimally invasive, and highly precise. Using advanced laser technology, Dr. Jerger is able to release the tight tissue in minutes, usually with minimal bleeding and pain, with no need for stitches. Many babies recover quickly after the procedure and begin feeding more efficiently immediately after.
Specialized Infant Care in a Family-Friendly Setting
At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the stresses of new parenthood and are committed to ensuring that proper feeding is not one of them. Dr. Jerger and our experienced team will supportively guide you through every step of the process, including what to expect before, during, and after, and always make time to empathetically answer any questions that arise.
Safe and Effective Laser Frenectomies in Decatur, IL
If you’re in Decatur and think your baby may be struggling due to a lip or tongue tie, contact Dr. Bret Jerger and the caring and skilled Jerger Pediatric Dentistry team to schedule a laser frenectomy consultation.