(608) 686-6021 [email protected] 120 Greenway Cross Court Belleville, WI 53508
Book Appointment
Frenectomy (lip & tongue tie release) in Belleville
— a simple procedure with life-changing results for infants, children, and adults
A frenum is the small band of tissue connecting your lip to your gum or your tongue to the floor of your mouth. When it’s too tight or attaches too low, it restricts movement and causes real problems — for nursing infants, developing children, and adults. A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive release that resolves the restriction.

Laser frenectomy — fast, exceptionally gentle, no sutures required

Staging Progression Spectrum
The Stages of Periodontal Progression
Understanding where your smile falls on the disease spectrum allows us to deploy targeted, stage-specific therapies before bone degradation becomes irreversible.

Infants & young children

Tongue tie indicators: Severe difficulty latching securely during breastfeeding, poor overall milk transfer, consistent nipple pain for the nursing mother, slow or stalled weight gain curves, and audible clicking sounds while nursing.
Lip tie indicators: The upper lip cannot flange outward properly during nursing, entirely preventing a tight seal. Frequently diagnosed alongside corresponding tongue ties.
Older children: Speech articulation difficulties or slurring, structural difficulty managing certain food textures, open bite alignments, or wide gaps emerging between front central teeth caused by the pulling action of the frenum on soft gum tissue.

Stage 2: Mild periodontitis

Gum recession paths: A tight or highly low-attaching labial frenum pulls gum tissue continuously away from front central roots, triggering progressive recession.

Diastema boundaries: A frenum attaching deeply between the front teeth blocks natural gaps from closing properly and can cause rapid relapse following orthodontics if not treated.

Denture fit stability: High or hyper-prominent frenum attachments can constantly interfere with denture base stability, repeatedly breaking suction fields.

Adult speech: Tongue-tied adults often spend a lifetime compensating for a restricted range of motion — a release can significantly improve articulation and oral function.

These two advanced procedures are frequently grouped together, but they serve entirely distinct structural purposes. Separating them helps you identify exactly which solution addresses your needs.

Anatomical Clarifications

Lip Ties vs. Tongue Ties: What is the difference?

Lip tie (labial frenum)

The labial frenum connects the interior upper lip directly to the gum tissue situated above the front central teeth. When it attaches too low or presents as too thick, the lip cannot flange freely — complicating nursing attachment in infants, or triggering accelerated gum recession or permanent wide gaps in adults.

Release procedure: Upper labial frenectomy — the restricted frenum is safely released at its low attachment vertex. It is a quick protocol often completed using an advanced dental laser.
Tongue tie (lingual frenum)

The lingual frenum anchors the underside membrane of the tongue straight down to the floor of the mouth. When it presents as too short, thick, or tight, overall tongue range of motion is restricted — severely impairing infant latch mechanics, childhood speech development, and adult swallowing function.

Release procedure: Lingual frenectomy — the binding frenum is released comfortably to immediately restore a full, natural range of tongue motion.

A quick, gentle procedure — often completed in under 15 minutes

At Crystal River Dental, soft-tissue frenectomies are performed using state-of-the-art dental lasers rather than traditional surgical scissors or scalpels. The focused laser light energy vaporizes the restrictive tissue band with micro-precision. This process seals local blood vessels and nerve endings instantly, resulting in virtually no bleeding, zero requirement for stitches, and a vastly more comfortable experience.

For infants, a gentle topical numbing gel is often completely sufficient, whereas children and adults receive a mild local anesthetic block. The entire release takes only a few minutes. Post-operative care involves simple, routine stretching exercises at home for a few weeks to guarantee the tissue heals openly without re-attaching.

Clinical Facts Matrix

Procedure Duration : 5–15 minutes total chairside block

Anesthesia Focus : Topical gel for infants; mild local block for older patients
Surgical Technology : Advanced soft-tissue dental laser matrix
Sutures Required : None — laser cauterizes and shapes boundaries instantly
Immediate Recovery: 1–2 days of mild local soreness; highly manageable
Infant Feeding: Infants can breastfeed immediately following the procedure
Post-Op Regimen: Brief, specialized stretching exercises to prevent re-attachment
Insurance Standard : Varies by plan; covered when medically indicated
The Clinical Journey
Step-by-Step Release Protocol

01

Evaluation

The frenum attachment is thoroughly evaluated both visually and functionally. We confirm if the tie is the source of symptoms — not all tight frenums require a release.


02

Anesthesia

Topical anesthetic gel is applied for infants, while a mild local anesthetic is used for older children and adults to ensure the procedure is completely comfortable.


03

Release

The restricted frenum tissue is safely released using our advanced dental laser. The procedure takes only a few minutes, with no bleeding and no sutures needed.


04

Recovery & follow-up

Infants can breastfeed immediately. We demonstrate the necessary post-procedure stretching exercises, which are essential to prevent the tissue from re-attaching as it heals.


Gentle, experienced frenectomy care for patients of all ages — in Belleville

Advanced laser frenectomy

Our soft-tissue laser provides a significantly gentler experience for infants and children. By eliminating scalpels and stitches, we ensure faster healing and minimal discomfort.

Patients of all ages welcomed

We provide compassionate care for newborns, toddlers, children, and adults alike. Our experienced team tailors our communication and approach to the comfort needs of each age group.

Thorough clinical evaluation

We do not release every frenum we see. We carefully confirm that the restriction is the actual cause of reported feeding, speech, or gum issues before recommending treatment.

Real Patient Feedback

Google reviews

Trusted by local families

4.8 ★★★★★ Google
Brenda Sedlar
Brenda Sedlar4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone there is friendly. The office is spotless and the hygenists are very thorough. Office…

martine mancini
martine mancini4 months ago
★★★★★

Service was on time and very friendly.

Beth Ann Zellmer
Beth Ann Zellmer2 months ago
★★★★★

Today, I had a cleaning of my teeth at Crystal Dental. The service I received…

Deb Ostrander
Deb Ostrander6 months ago
★★★★★

Jan, their dental hygienist did a fabulous job cleaning my teeth. Very knowledgeable and thorough.

Anthony Brzozowski
Anthony Brzozowski2 months ago
★★★★★

Had a crown done today, always professional and painless work done by the dentist here…

Paul Hanneman
Paul Hanneman2 months ago
★★★★★

I appreciate their honest work and explanation of what is going on when I get…

LRSchuelke
LRSchuelke2 months ago
★★★★★

Dentist, associates, & all office staff are absolutely awesome. They don’t treat their patients as…

doc finn
doc finn2 months ago
★★★★★

I'm very pleased with the service and the professionalism at Crystal River dental. I felt…

Stacy
Stacy3 months ago
★★★★★

All employees are very nice and listen to ymy issues and explain what needs to…

Lois Richter
Lois Richter2 months ago
★★★★★

The staff at Crystal River Dental is very professional, friendly & efficient. I am so…

Becca Lewis-Clifton
Becca Lewis-Clifton2 months ago
★★★★★

After starting in 2022, at CRD, I was happy the practice finally settled down with…

Janet Kitzrow
Janet Kitzrow6 months ago
★★★★★

I had an exam with Dr Nguyen, that was very thorough. I appreciate his comprehensive…

Tami French
Tami French6 months ago
★★★★★

First experience went awesome & I look forward to my future visits! I broke my…

Judith Gudex
Judith Gudex6 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience at Crystal River Dental. My Hygienist, Angela did an outstanding job and I…

Barbara
Barbara6 months ago
★★★★★

I always feel very cared about. 😊 I am cared about as a person compassionately…

Pauline Suhs
Pauline Suhs6 months ago
★★★★★

Very kind and efficient. Friendly staff.

Rodney Frankovis
Rodney Frankovis4 months ago
★★★★★

Very good. On time and thorough.

Denny Schroeder
Denny Schroeder6 months ago
★★★★★

Always a pleasant experience Thank you

Patricia steinbarth
Patricia steinbarth3 months ago
★★★★★

Very competent and friendly people. Angela did a great job cleaning my teeth.

bonnie banaszak
bonnie banaszak2 months ago
★★★★★

Thank you for getting me in today you made my day.

Mark wheaton
Mark wheaton6 months ago
★★★★★

Great attention to detail.

Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)
Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing from when you first walk in the door until you leave. Everyone treats you…

Nate Kahler
Nate Kahler2 months ago
★★★★★

First visit to Crystal River Dental. The staff was very accommodating and helpful.

Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson6 months ago
★★★★★

Great dentist and coworkers!

Mary Lindenmeyer
Mary Lindenmeyer2 months ago
★★★★★

You really care about your clients!!! More than the one I had after40 plus years…

Bpontzloff Bigboyss
Bpontzloff Bigboyss3 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and professional staff.They are honest and do a great job.

Dennis Marten
Dennis Marten2 months ago
★★★★★

Very nice, I was totally comfortable. Thanks.

Randy Thern
Randy Thern2 months ago
★★★★★

The cleaning was done in a relatively painless way. The exam was thorough and I…

Debra Olsen
Debra Olsen2 months ago
★★★★★

For the first time in my life I am not afraid to go to the…

Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly6 months ago
★★★★★

They are very friendly an efficient

John Charleston
John Charleston6 months ago
★★★★★

Professional and sensitive to patients needs.

Tonette Decker
Tonette Decker6 months ago
★★★★★

I like Dr. Nyugen my dentist here at Dental Crystal River – Waupaca very professional…

Ruth Hanson
Ruth Hanson2 months ago
★★★★★

Very thorough exam and nice people!

Cliff
Cliff6 months ago
★★★★★

Glad to be here: good listeners, good attention to detail, and hospitable. All make you…

Julie Johannes
Julie Johannes4 months ago
★★★★★

Met Hygienist Angela today for the first time. She was extremely thoughtful, thorough and educational….

Christine Galyardt
Christine Galyardt4 months ago
★★★★★

Love the dentist! They are very caring and efficient.

dirk williams
dirk williams2 months ago
★★★★★

I had my first visit. I had to miss my first appointment….The staff was very…

Jesus isLord
Jesus isLord3 months ago
★★★★★

The dentist is very cordial and respectful. I appreciate the care she gives.

David Golke
David Golke4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been with crystal river for about a year now and they have been nothing…

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson4 months ago
★★★★★

I had a wonderful experience. The dental hygienist was very nice and was also encouraging…

Jan Niemuth
Jan Niemuth1 month ago
★★★★★

Routine 6 mo cleaning and exam today. Punctuality is appreciated. Comfortable, painless procedures done in…

Alyssa Schauer
Alyssa Schauer4 months ago
★★★★

Dr. B was thorough and I am glad that my son had his chipped tooth…

Marlene Germundson
Marlene Germundson6 months ago
★★★★★

The assistants and the doctor are very nice and explains things very well.

Sherry Werner
Sherry Werner3 months ago
★★★★★

She was awesome. She was concerned and listened to me

Christopher Gudex
Christopher Gudex2 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and thorough.

Darrell Bartel
Darrell Bartel3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing Dental Care. From the Receptionist, throughout the whole process, Everyone makes you feel special….

Aaron Mueller
Aaron Mueller2 months ago
★★★★★

Very pleased! As an itinerant substitute dentist she did a fantastic and thorough job.

All-Time Greatest Music
All-Time Greatest Music3 months ago
★★★★★

The young lady that cleaned my teeth was very thorough and had a very pleasant…

Heather Krueger
Heather Krueger4 months ago
★★★★★

They were very nice and took care of me right from the start

Kay Konen
Kay Konen2 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist was great,and Dr.'s explanation of teeth matters explained throughly.

Anna Gallegos-Hunt
Anna Gallegos-Hunt3 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Nguyen is a very knowledgeable and caring person..he explains options and the why of…

Chuck Wieland
Chuck Wieland2 months ago
★★★★★

Tina was excellent in what she was doing with my teeth. Was able to get…

Stephen L Manske
Stephen L Manske4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been really impressed with the service and the quality of work. This visit provides…

Cindy Roberts
Cindy Roberts6 months ago
★★★★★

All of the staff are so very friendly. They always get to me on time….

Debby Dear
Debby Dear3 months ago
★★★★★

I couldn’t be happier with Crystal River Dental. Everyone from the front desk to the…

Joyce Greenholdt
Joyce Greenholdt6 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and all the staff have been friendly, helpful, very skilled, and very good…

Sharrey Kalbus
Sharrey Kalbus3 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and friendly.

Kathy Wagner
Kathy Wagner4 months ago
★★★★★

Everything they did was pain free. Thank you

Dorene Knolle
Dorene Knolle2 months ago
★★★★★

Every was nice and helpful.

MJB
MJB2 months ago
★★★★★

Good experience! Dr.Saad, assistant Lisa, and hygienist Angela have all been very professional and helpful….

Emilie Eppensteiner
Emilie Eppensteiner2 months ago
★★★★

I chatted with hygienist and dentist. Both were nice and knowledgeable. I had a filling…

Jim Tomasko
Jim Tomasko6 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone is very polite and helpful. I had to make a last minute appointment because…

Timothy Hein
Timothy Hein1 month ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a top notch practice from top to bottom. Highly competent and…

Linda Kubczak
Linda Kubczak3 months ago
★★★★★

Very sad to see Doctor Lap Nguyen had left sure enjoyed going to have him…

Gary Prochnow
Gary Prochnow3 months ago
★★★★★

I had work done in both Waupaca and Wausau locations over the past year. Doctors…

Marcia Lieske
Marcia Lieske4 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Very thorough, friendly & gentle. They provide detailed explanations of procedures and upfront…

Brittany Durrant
Brittany Durrant3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Made me feel very comfortable and wanted to make sure I was okay…

Cindy Cate
Cindy Cate2 months ago
★★★★★

I thought she is very kind and gentle! Gave me good advice for future care!

desiree lucena
desiree lucena2 months ago
★★★★★

A perfect place with super-professional people who provide excellent service. I was extremely satisfied with…

Tracy Karabelas
Tracy Karabelas2 months ago
★★★★★

Love this place & the Dentist! They are efficient, friendly and realistic! They work with…

Heather Meyer
Heather Meyer4 months ago
★★★★★

This dentist made me feel BEYOND comfortable! I have never had a dentist so forward,…

Dave N
Dave N4 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and great service

Debbie Altenburg
Debbie Altenburg6 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly Staff and the dentist is the best dentist I’ve ever been to 😊

Cindy Buenning
Cindy Buenning6 months ago
★★★★★

As a first time patient, I was very happy with the hygienist and the dentist.

Vicki Sommers
Vicki Sommers6 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and efficient, best dentist I've ever had. Due to exposed roots teeth are…

Chad
Chad6 months ago
★★★★★

It was a great experience, they were very unstanding and very kind.

b c (BC)
b c (BC)2 months ago
★★★★★

Very through and honest dentist. Sugested but did not try 2 push expensive improvements.

Gwynn Schroeder
Gwynn Schroeder2 months ago
★★★★★

The appointment was right on time. My cleaning was great without discomfort. Dr. did a…

Gator G
Gator G4 months ago
★★★★★

Great and helpful always listens to my concerns

Timothy Lemerand
Timothy Lemerand6 months ago
★★★★★

CRD stands behind its work and products Rarely do you see a company that has…

Steve and Linda
Steve and Linda6 months ago
★★★★★

They have always done a great job with my regular teeth cleaning. got same day…

Michael Messing
Michael Messing2 months ago
★★★★★

The new dentist was very friendly and good and the hygienist was great.

Bonita Erdmann
Bonita Erdmann4 months ago
★★★★★

I was very pleased with the staff and Dr. Matte. Thank you.

Lynn Eberly
Lynn Eberly6 months ago
★★★★★

I had my bottom teeth removed. I had no bruising, swelling or any pain, just…

Karen Galske
Karen Galske6 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Lap Nguyen was the dentist I saw today, and I was very impressed. I…

Frequently Asked Frenectomy Questions
Common signs in nursing infants include difficulty latching securely, poor milk transfer, persistent nipple pain for the mother, frequent unsatiated feeding cycles, and an audible clicking sound while nursing. We can thoroughly assess and confirm candidacy during a brief evaluation appointment, often scheduled within the same week.
 
Infants possess very few nerve endings in the central frenum tissue zone, making the laser release exceptionally fast and well-tolerated. Most infants cry briefly from the minor physical restriction rather than pain, and settle quickly upon nursing immediately after the procedure, which provides instant comfort.
 
Yes. Post-procedure stretching exercises are an essential part of the healing protocol for infants and young children. Oral tissues heal rapidly, and without regular, brief stretches, the released frenum can contract and re-attach as it heals. We demonstrate the proper technique clearly before you leave.
Absolutely. Adults with untreated tongue ties often spend a lifetime compensating for restricted oral range of motion, which can impact speech articulation and swallowing. For adults with low lip tie attachments, a frenectomy stops progressive gum recession and prevents front teeth orthodontic relapse.
 
Coverage parameters vary by provider. Both dental and medical insurance plans frequently cover a frenectomy when it is medically indicated for feeding difficulties, speech impediments, or progressive gum recession. For infants, medical insurance may apply when ordered by a pediatrician or certified lactation consultant.
Related services

Scaling & root planing

The standard, highly effective initial therapeutic deep cleaning required to eliminate bacterial calcifications below the gum line.

Periodontal maintenance

Ongoing supportive cleaning therapy required every 90 days to disrupt bacterial growth and defend your stabilized bone structures.

Laser gum treatment

Advanced, minimally invasive dental laser applications designed to sterilize deep pockets and eliminate infection comfortably.

Open for Appointments

Schedule your visit with our friendly dental team today.