Expert Tongue Tie Release Surgery in Annapolis, MD
Restoring Oral Function and Whole-Body Balance
At Maryland Holistic Dentistry and the Maryland Tongue Tie Center, we provide precise, gentle tongue-tie release surgery (frenectomy) to restore natural tongue mobility and improve oral, airway, and developmental function. Our biologically based approach ensures that treatment supports not just oral health — but overall well-being, breathing, and posture.
Our team works with patients of all ages — from infants to adults — providing functional evaluations, laser release procedures, and comprehensive pre- and post-surgical support for long-lasting results.
What Is a Tongue-Tie?
A tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the thin band of tissue under the tongue, called the frenulum, is too short, thick, or tight. This restriction can interfere with natural tongue movement and cause complications such as:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or latching in infants
- Speech articulation problems in children or adults
- Mouth breathing and poor sleep quality
- Jaw pain or TMJ dysfunction
- Tension in the neck and shoulders
- Poor dental and facial development over time
Our functional medicine dentistry approach allows us to evaluate these issues in the context of total body health — addressing both symptoms and their root causes.
Holistic Tongue-Tie Treatment at Maryland Holistic Dentistry
We perform tongue-tie releases using advanced soft-tissue laser technology, offering a safer and more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods. The benefits include:
- Minimal discomfort and bleeding
- Faster healing and lower infection risk
- Greater surgical precision
- Shorter treatment times
- Improved function almost immediately after release
For infants, treatment is performed quickly and gently, with immediate return to feeding. For children and adults, we include supportive therapies before and after surgery to retrain tongue function and optimize healing.
Learn more about our soft tissue dental laser technology.
Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Surgery Support
A successful release requires more than simply cutting tissue. That’s why our practice emphasizes full functional recovery through preparation, follow-up care, and muscle retraining.
Our process includes:
- Pre-Surgical Assessment
We evaluate oral posture, tongue range of motion, and airway function. In some cases, myofunctional therapy may begin before the release to build muscle awareness and coordination. - Laser Frenectomy Procedure
Using state-of-the-art laser technology, we gently release the restrictive frenulum under local or topical anesthesia. - Post-Surgical Care & Exercises
We provide a detailed Tongue Tie Pre-Surgery Guide and Post-Surgery Guide to ensure optimal healing and prevent reattachment. - Functional Recovery Phase
We often collaborate with specialists in speech therapy, lactation, and airway dentistry for a team-based, whole-body outcome.
Signs You or Your Child May Need a Tongue-Tie Release
A restricted frenulum can present differently at various ages. Common signs include:
In Infants
- Trouble latching or staying latched during breastfeeding
- Clicking or gassy feeding patterns
- Poor weight gain or reflux symptoms
- Fatigue during feeding
In Children
- Speech delays or unclear pronunciation
- Open-mouth posture or difficulty swallowing
- Chronic mouth breathing or snoring
- Narrow dental arches or crowded teeth
In Adults
- Jaw tension or TMJ pain
- Difficulty swallowing certain foods
- Restricted tongue motion
- Sleep issues or airway collapse during rest
Because tongue-tie impacts oral function, posture, and breathing, many adults find relief in unexpected ways after treatment — from improved sleep to reduced neck and shoulder tension.
The Connection Between Tongue Function and Airway Health
Proper tongue posture plays a critical role in supporting the airway and facial development. When restricted, the tongue can’t rest against the palate, often contributing to:
- Mouth breathing and reduced oxygen intake
- Poor jaw growth or misalignment
- Sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea
Our integrated care often includes airway dentistry and sleep apnea treatments to support long-term airway stability and proper oral function.
Why Patients Choose Maryland Holistic Dentistry
Families from Crownsville, Annapolis, Dunkirk, and surrounding communities choose our practice because we provide:
- A biological, whole-body perspective on oral health
- Gentle laser release using modern soft tissue technology
Functional therapy integration for optimal results - A calm, family-friendly environment
- Guidance from experienced clinicians including Dr. Gena Schultheis and her interdisciplinary care team
Our focus is not just on the release itself, but on supporting functional recovery and long-term wellness for every patient.
FAQs About Tongue-Tie Release Surgery
Is laser tongue-tie surgery safe for infants?
Yes. Our soft tissue laser minimizes trauma and allows for quick healing. Infants can typically feed immediately after the procedure.
Does tongue-tie release require anesthesia?
We typically use topical or local anesthesia for comfort. For older children or adults, light sedation options are available.
How long is recovery?
Most patients heal within 7–10 days. Performing post-operative stretches and following the Tongue Tie Post-Surgery Guide ensures optimal results.
Will my speech improve after release?
Many patients experience clearer speech and improved articulation, especially when combined with therapy.
Can untreated tongue-tie cause future problems?
Yes. Without treatment, tongue restriction can contribute to breathing dysfunction, jaw pain, and improper dental or facial development.
Restore Comfort, Function, and Natural Movement
If you or your child struggle with symptoms of tongue restriction, our gentle, biologically based tongue-tie release surgery can help restore function and improve quality of life. Our dedicated team at Maryland Holistic Dentistry and the Maryland Tongue Tie Center offers compassionate care and full functional support for patients of all ages.
Call your nearest location:
- Maryland Tongue-Tie Center – Crownsville: (410) 923-2586
- Maryland Holistic Dentistry – Crownsville: (410) 923-2586
- Calvert Smiles – Dunkirk: (410) 257-7200
- Annapolis Green Dental – Annapolis: (410) 224-4500
Or request your appointment online.
Explore Our Tongue Tie Release Surgery Services
