Patient Information
Understanding Tongue & Lip Ties
Whether you're concerned about your infant's feeding, your child's speech, or your own symptoms as an adult, we're here to help you understand what's happening and what can be done.
Recognize the Signs
Signs & Symptoms: What to Watch For
Infants
- Difficulty latching or staying latched
- Clicking or smacking sounds while feeding
- Poor weight gain or slow feeding
- Excessive gas, reflux, or colic
- Maternal nipple pain or damage
- Falling asleep during feeds
Children
- Speech delays or articulation problems
- Picky eating or trouble with textures
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Difficulty brushing teeth
- Sleep issues or restlessness
- Gap between front teeth
Adults
- TMJ pain or jaw tension
- Chronic neck or shoulder tension
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Sleep apnea or snoring
- Headaches or migraines
- Difficulty swallowing pills
Understanding the Condition
What is a Tongue or Lip Tie?
A tongue tie is a web of thickened fascia between the tongue and the floor of the mouth. The fascia can vary in thickness and attachment location and restrict normal tongue movement. The medical term for the web of fascia is called a frenum. A frenum that restricts the normal function of the tongue is called ankyloglossia (otherwise referred to as tongue tie).
A lip tie is a web of thickened fascia that is located between the top lip and gums. The fascia can differ in thickness, length, and elasticity, restricting the lip from moving freely.
Tongue tie
Lip tie
Tongue tie release
Before
After
Lip tie release
Before
After
The Procedure
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple, effective procedure to release the tight tissue and restore natural mobility. At Northstar Lip and Tongue Tie Center, we use a gentle CO₂ laser for precise, comfortable treatment with minimal bleeding and fast healing.
Most procedures take just a few minutes in-office and are tailored to you (or your child's) age, anatomy, and goals. We treat with function in mind—meaning we collaborate with feeding therapists, myofunctional therapists, lactation consultants, and orthodontists to help you achieve the best long-term outcome.
Our Approach
Why Choose Northstar Lip and Tongue Tie Center?
Whether you're here for your newborn, your teen, or yourself—we meet you where you are and guide you every step of the way.
- 20+ years of oral surgery experience
- Personal, compassionate care—we've been in your shoes as parents
- Focus on function, not just appearance
- Sedation options for a smooth surgery
- Suture closure for predictable healing
- Collaborative, team-based approach
- Continued learning in fascia, posture, and airway development
About Dr. Park
Credentials & Affiliations
Two decades of oral surgery experience, with specialized training in tongue and lip tie release.
Education & Certification
- DMD — Doctor of Dental Medicine
- Diplomate, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Surgical Residency — Brookdale University Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
- Basic Life Support certified
Specialized Training
- Tongue Tied Academy (2020)
- The Breathe Institute Ambassador (2025)
- 20+ years of oral surgery experience
Professional Memberships
- American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Ohio Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
Your Journey
How to Get Started
We've made the process simple and supportive from the start.
Submit a Request
Book online or call the office to schedule your consultation
Evaluation
Dr. Park performs a thorough assessment of your condition
Treatment Plan
Discuss findings and review your personalized options
Treatment
Precise laser release performed in-office
Follow-up
Guided aftercare and check-ins for optimal healing
Book online or call our office for a time that works for your family.
Have questions about your symptoms?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Park to discuss your concerns and find out if a frenectomy is right for you or your child.