Post-Op Instructions (Dental & Sawgrass Untied)
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INFANT POST-OP CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Laser Tongue & Lip Tie Release (Frenectomy)
Thank you for trusting us with your child’s care. Below are your post-op instructions. Please follow them closely for the best healing and long-term success.
DAILY STRETCHES (STARTING THE DAY OF PROCEDURE)
Do each stretch 6 times per day for the first 3 weeks, then reduce to 3 times per day for an additional 2 weeks.
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Tongue Lift: Using clean fingers, gently lift your baby's tongue toward the roof of the mouth and hold for 1-2 seconds.
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Lip Roll: Gently roll the upper lip up toward the nose until you see the surgical site.
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Massage: With a clean finger, gently massage the area to prevent reattachment.
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It's okay if your baby fusses or cries briefly. This doesn’t mean you are hurting them.
WHAT TO EXPECT
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Mild bleeding in the first 24 hours is normal.
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Fussiness or disrupted sleep is common for 2-3 days.
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The surgical site will turn white or yellowish – this is normal healing tissue.
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You may notice temporary regression in feeding before improvement.
COMFORT TIPS
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Nurse or feed immediately after stretches.
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Use skin-to-skin contact and gentle rocking.
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Use breastmilk popsicles or cool washcloths to soothe gums if needed.
WHEN TO CALL US
Please contact our office if you notice:
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Excessive bleeding (soaking more than 1 burp cloth in 30 minutes)
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Fever over 100.4°F
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Baby refuses all feedings for more than 8 hours
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You have any concerns or questions at all
Phone: 843-236-7500
CHILD POST-OP CARE + EXERCISES
Laser Tongue & Lip Tie Release (Frenectomy)
Healing happens best with consistent movement of the tongue and lips. These exercises help prevent reattachment and support new muscle memory.
DAILY STRETCHES
Weeks 1–3: 5-6 times per day
Weeks 4–5: Reduce to 3 times per day
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Tongue to Roof of Mouth – Have your child lift their tongue as high as possible and hold for 3 seconds.
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Tongue Circles – Stick tongue out and move in a slow circle both directions.
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Lip Flips – Pull the upper lip up and hold for 2 seconds.
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Resistance Pushes – Use a clean finger or tongue depressor to gently push against the tongue for light resistance.
HELPFUL TIPS
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Make it fun! Use a mirror, music, or turn it into a game.
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Reward consistency with stickers or small prizes.
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Be patient—your child may resist at first, but this gets easier with routine.
WHAT TO EXPECT
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Mild soreness or tightness for 2–3 days
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A white or yellowish film at the surgical site is normal
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Speech or feeding may temporarily regress before improving
WHEN TO CALL US
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Severe pain or refusal to eat
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Bleeding that lasts more than 10 minutes
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Fever over 100.4°F
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Concerns about healing or behavior
Phone: 843-236-7500
