Frenectomy (lip & tongue tie release)
in Waupaca
— 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 Waupaca

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
Timothy Lemerand
Timothy Lemerand4 months ago
★★★★★

CRD stands behind its work and products Rarely do you see a company that has such integrity.

Marlene Germundson
Marlene Germundson4 months ago
★★★★★

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

Debby Dear
Debby Dear2 months ago
★★★★★

I couldn’t be happier with Crystal River Dental. Everyone from the front desk to the dentist and dental staff are warm, friendly, profession and…

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Jim Tomasko4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone is very polite and helpful. I had to make a last minute appointment because of a broken tooth. They got me in fast…..worked…

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Randy Thern4 weeks ago
★★★★★

The cleaning was done in a relatively painless way. The exam was thorough and I was given a reasonable long-term plan for treatment.

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Judith Gudex4 months ago
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Alyssa Schauer3 months ago
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Gwynn Schroeder3 weeks ago
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The appointment was right on time. My cleaning was great without discomfort. Dr. did a check that all was done.

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Sharrey Kalbus2 months ago
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Very professional and friendly.

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LRSchuelke4 weeks ago
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Jesus isLord2 months ago
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Sherry Werner2 months ago
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Rodney Frankovis3 months ago
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Debra Olsen1 month ago
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Christine Galyardt3 months ago
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Debbie Altenburg4 months ago
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Lisa Kasner5 months ago
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Chad4 months ago
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I had work done in both Waupaca and Wausau locations over the past year. Doctors and staff were excellent. Worked with me financially to…

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Nancy Anderson5 months ago
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Vicki Sommers4 months ago
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Very friendly and efficient, best dentist I've ever had. Due to exposed roots teeth are very sensitive, but they are so careful.

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Ruth Hanson1 month ago
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Joel Altenburg5 months ago
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All-Time Greatest Music2 months ago
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Steve and Linda4 months ago
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First experience went awesome & I look forward to my future visits! I broke my tooth and they got me in asap and will…

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Janet Kitzrow4 months ago
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I had an exam with Dr Nguyen, that was very thorough. I appreciate his comprehensive oral cancer screening and advice

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Michael Messing2 weeks ago
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The new dentist was very friendly and good and the hygienist was great.

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Joyce Greenholdt4 months ago
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Hygienist, Angela, very thorough, does an excellent job explaining teeth and toothbrush issues. Reminding me to change the electric toothbrush head more often, perhaps…

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Jan Niemuth2 weeks ago
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Routine 6 mo cleaning and exam today. Punctuality is appreciated. Comfortable, painless procedures done in time alloted with next appointment already scheduled. A real…

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Marilyn Lange5 months ago
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martine mancini3 months ago
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Mary Lindenmeyer2 weeks ago
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You really care about your clients!!! More than the one I had after40 plus years in Waupaca !!! Thank you for caring Mary Lindenmeyer

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The receptionists, the hygienist, Nicole and Dr. Nguyen were all very communicative, professional, efficient and friendly. A dental plan was put in place for…

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Beth Ann Zellmer1 month ago
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Today, I had a cleaning of my teeth at Crystal Dental. The service I received was excellent. The new dentist was thorough completely, as…

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Kay Konen1 month ago
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Denny Schroeder4 months ago
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Always a pleasant experience Thank you

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Pauline Suhs4 months ago
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Aaron Mueller1 month ago
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Very pleased! As an itinerant substitute dentist she did a fantastic and thorough job.

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After starting in 2022, at CRD, I was happy the practice finally settled down with you Dr Jon as the permanent dentist! WELCOME I…

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Professional and sensitive to patients needs.

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Emilie Eppensteiner1 month ago
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I chatted with hygienist and dentist. Both were nice and knowledgeable. I had a filling done. Went good.

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Met Hygienist Angela today for the first time. She was extremely thoughtful, thorough and educational. The interim Dentist was equally warm and friendly as…

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I appreciate their honest work and explanation of what is going on when I get X-rays and progress reports on if anything is changing.

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Linda Kubczak2 months ago
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Very sad to see Doctor Lap Nguyen had left sure enjoyed going to have him as a dentist. Have a fill in now till…

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Chuck Wieland4 weeks ago
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Tina was excellent in what she was doing with my teeth. Was able to get me in a little earlier the schedule. Never a…

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Cindy Buenning4 months ago
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As a first time patient, I was very happy with the hygienist and the dentist.

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★★★★★

Friendly, professional, took the time to answer my questions.

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dirk williams3 weeks ago
★★★★★

I had my first visit. I had to miss my first appointment….The staff was very accommodating in rescheduling and meeting my schedule!

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Karen Galske4 months ago
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Dr. Lap Nguyen was the dentist I saw today, and I was very impressed. I recently moved to Waupaca and needed to find new…

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Patricia steinbarth2 months ago
★★★★★

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

Anna Gallegos-Hunt
Anna Gallegos-Hunt2 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Nguyen is a very knowledgeable and caring person..he explains options and the why of it all I really like Alicia at the front…

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Brittany Durrant2 months ago
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bonnie banaszak1 month ago
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★★★★★

Everything they did was pain free. Thank you

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Brenda Sedlar3 months ago
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Avilomah Ridge
Avilomah Ridge5 months ago
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I had dental phobia, but everyone here is so kind, patient and understanding. Dentist does top notch work. They've turned me into a loyal…

Cliff
Cliff4 months ago
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Glad to be here: good listeners, good attention to detail, and hospitable. All make you feel comfortable.

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Russell Delgado5 months ago
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A very good dentist and very nice and friendly

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Tracy Karabelas1 month ago
★★★★★

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Stephen L Manske3 months ago
★★★★★

I've been really impressed with the service and the quality of work. This visit provides the extra effort I've done has been beneficial.

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Dale Hazard5 months ago
★★★★★

Even being late everyone was pleasant

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Marcia Lieske3 months ago
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Great experience! Very thorough, friendly & gentle. They provide detailed explanations of procedures and upfront pricing, which I appreciate. I'm confident that I made…

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Stacy2 months ago
★★★★★

All employees are very nice and listen to ymy issues and explain what needs to be done Angela cleaned my teeth gently and took…

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Tonette Decker4 months ago
★★★★★

I like Dr. Nyugen my dentist here at Dental Crystal River – Waupaca very professional , smiles and explained procedures he performs. He gave…

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Lois Richter3 weeks ago
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Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)
Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)2 months ago
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Jeanine Kes Bode5 months ago
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Always on time. Always very friendly.

Christal Berg
Christal Berg5 months ago
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I feel very comfortable there

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.

A ten-minute procedure can make a lifetime of difference. Schedule your frenectomy evaluation at Crystal River Dental.

We provide compassionate, highly precise laser frenectomies for infants, children, and adults across Waupaca, WI.