breath

Infant Tongue & Lip Tie Release

Cosmetic and Neuromuscular Dentistry in Burke, VA

Book an Appointment

Gentle, Precise, and Compassionate Care for Your Baby

Does your baby struggle with breastfeeding, seem constantly fussy, or have difficulty sleeping? Do you experience pain while nursing? While these issues are common, they’re not always normal—and in many cases, the root cause may be a tongue tie or lip tie. Early identification and treatment can make an extraordinary difference in your baby’s feeding, comfort, and overall development.

At Pamela Marzban DDS, Dr. Sameera Meyer provides gentle, laser-assisted treatment for infants with oral restrictions. As both a skilled dentist and a mother, she understands how overwhelming feeding challenges can be. Her goal is to help your baby feed, sleep, and grow comfortably while supporting you every step of the way.

Contact Us
Meet Dr. Meyer

What Are Tongue Ties and Lip Ties?

  • Tongue Tie

    LINGUAL FRENECTOMY

    A tongue tie occurs when the band of tissue beneath the tongue, called the lingual frenulum, is too short, tight, or thick. This limits tongue mobility and can cause problems with breastfeeding, swallowing, and later, speech. A simple lingual frenectomy releases the tissue and restores full movement, helping your baby latch and feed effectively.

  • Lip Tie

    LABIAL FRENECTOMY

    A lip tie happens when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is overly tight or thick. This can restrict movement, interfere with feeding, and lead to oral hygiene or orthodontic issues as your child grows. A labial frenectomy gently releases this tissue, improving mobility and comfort.

Recognizing the Signs

Baby Symptoms:

  • Clicking sounds while feeding

  • Shallow latch or frequent unlatching

  • Gassiness, colic, or reflux

  • Blisters on the lips or falling asleep while feeding

  • Poor weight gain or constant fussiness

Mom Symptoms:

  • Painful nursing or creased, cracked nipples

  • Poor breast drainage and reduced milk supply

  • Engorgement, clogged ducts, or mastitis

  • The baby favoring one breast or one side while feeding

Recognizing and addressing these signs early can make feeding more comfortable and help your baby thrive.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Your baby’s tongue and lips play a critical role in feeding, swallowing, and jaw development. When ties restrict movement, babies may struggle to latch or get enough milk, leading to frustration, pain, and exhaustion for both mom and baby.

Early treatment supports:

  • Effective, pain-free breastfeeding

  • Healthy jaw and airway development

  • Proper swallowing and muscle coordination

  • Long-term speech and dental development

To ensure the best outcomes, Dr. Meyer works closely with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and, when needed, pediatric physical therapists or chiropractors. The procedure releases the restriction, while collaborative care helps your baby integrate new feeding patterns and function naturally.

What Happens If Ties Aren’t Treated?

Untreated tongue and lip ties can impact more than feeding—they can influence long-term development. Limited tongue mobility can affect jaw growth, speech, and airway formation. Children may develop crowded teeth, bite problems, or even sleep apnea later in life due to underdeveloped jaw and airway structures.

Early treatment helps guide proper growth, supporting healthy facial, dental, and airway development—so your child can breathe, sleep, and thrive with ease.

Our Treatment Process

  • Step 1

    CONSULTATION AND EVALUATION

    Your visit begins with a conversation about your baby’s feeding history and a gentle oral exam. Dr. Meyer looks for both physical and functional signs of restriction and partners with IBCLCs to create a plan that supports both baby and mom.

  • Step 2

    LASER FRENECTOMY PROCEDURE

    Using the LightScalpel CO₂ laser, Dr. Meyer performs a precise, quick, and comfortable release:

    ◆ The procedure takes about 30 seconds
    ◆ Minimal bleeding and discomfort
    ◆ Reduced risk of infection and faster healing
    ◆ No need for general anesthesia

    Babies are swaddled for comfort, protective eyewear is used, and parents are guided through every step.

  • Step 3

    HEALING AND AFTERCARE

    Most babies experience noticeable feeding improvement soon after treatment. Dr. Meyer will guide you through gentle post-op stretches to prevent tissue reattachment and ensure optimal healing. Ongoing collaboration with your lactation consultant or therapist supports full recovery and function.

  • Step 4

    FOLLOW-UP VISIT

    A follow-up appointment about a week later allows Dr. Meyer to check healing, address questions, and ensure your baby—and you—are doing well.

FAQs: Tongue Ties and Lip Ties

  • The use of topical anesthetics and the precision of the CO₂ laser minimize discomfort. While some fussiness and crying are natural, the procedure is quick and far less invasive than other methods.

  • Many babies show improvement in feeding soon after the procedure, while others may take a bit more time as they adjust to their tongue or lip’s new mobility. Every child is unique, and that’s okay. Small milestones are very important and we look for one better feed per day during the healing process.

  • The CO₂ laser offers unparalleled precision and comfort, with reduced bleeding and a faster recovery time. It’s a minimally invasive option designed with your baby’s safety and well-being in mind.

Gentle, Lasting Results Begin Here

Every day matters in your baby’s development. Early intervention with laser tongue and lip tie release offers immediate relief and lasting benefits. Dr. Sameera Meyer and our collaborative care team are here to support you through each step—helping your baby feed better, sleep better, and smile brighter.

Call 703-323-8200 or contact us online to schedule your Infant Tongue and Lip Tie Consultation today.

Book an Appointment with Dr. Meyer