Is a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie Holding Your Child Back?
Dr. Corbin Smith offers gentle, laser-powered frenectomies in Rancho Bernardo. Quick procedure. Minimal discomfort. Same-day recovery.
When Something Feels Off, Trust Your Instincts
Maybe your baby struggles to latch during nursing. Maybe your toddler's speech isn't developing the way you expected. Maybe your child has a gap between their front teeth that doesn't seem to be closing on its own.
You've noticed something. You've probably Googled "tongue-tie" or "lip-tie" more times than you can count. And every article leaves you with more questions than answers.
Here's what you need to know: a tongue-tie or lip-tie is caused by a small band of tissue called a frenulum that's too tight, too thick, or positioned in a way that restricts your child's movement. It's more common than most parents realize, and it's completely treatable.
You're not overthinking it. If something feels off, it's worth getting checked.
What Happens When a Tie Goes Untreated
A restrictive frenulum doesn't resolve on its own, and the effects reach further than most parents expect.
For infants, it can make breastfeeding painful and inefficient, leaving both baby and parent exhausted and frustrated. Some mothers give up nursing entirely without realizing a simple procedure could have changed everything.
For toddlers and older children, an untreated tie can delay speech development, make it harder to eat certain foods, and create oral hygiene challenges when the tongue or lip can't move freely enough to clean the teeth naturally.
Over time, a tight frenulum can cause spacing issues between teeth, contribute to gum recession, and lead to compensatory habits that become harder to correct the longer they continue.
The good news: when it's caught and treated, most of these issues improve quickly. The key is finding a provider you trust to evaluate your child honestly and treat them gently.
A Gentle, Laser-Powered Fix in Minutes
At North Hills Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Smith performs frenectomies using the Solea Laser. No scalpels. No stitches.
Thorough Evaluation
Dr. Smith evaluates your child's frenulum and explains exactly what he sees, whether it's a tongue-tie, lip-tie, or both. He only recommends a frenectomy when it's truly needed.
Gentle Laser Treatment
A local anesthetic is applied, then the Solea Laser releases the tissue in minutes. It's quiet, precise, and causes minimal bleeding.
Same-Day Recovery
Your child goes home the same day and returns to normal activities right away. Most parents are surprised by how quick and calm the whole experience is.
A Pediatric Dentist Who Puts Your Child First
Dr. Corbin Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He earned his DMD from Midwestern University and completed his pediatric specialty training at NYU Hospitals Center.
He's also a father of four who understands the worry that comes with making medical decisions for your child. His approach is simple: evaluate thoroughly, explain honestly, and only treat when it's the right call.
Dr. Smith has experience performing frenectomies on patients from newborns to teenagers. He works at every child's pace, building trust before picking up any tools. If your child needs extra comfort, sedation options including nitrous oxide are available.
At North Hills, you won't feel rushed or pressured. You'll feel heard.
What Parents Are Saying
My 2 year old son didn't want to leave after his appointment, he was so comfortable!
It really feels like they are on your team instead of judging you.
Dr. Smith and his staff are fantastic! They were kind, knowledgeable, and so great with each of my kids.
Making It Easy for Your Family
We accept 16+ insurance plans and handle the paperwork so you can focus on your child.
In-Network Plans
Have a different plan? We'll process your claims too. Just ask.
No Insurance? No Problem.
Ages 0–12
$350
/year
Ages 13+
$400
/year
Each plan includes:
- Two cleanings with fluoride
- Two exams
- All necessary X-rays
- One emergency exam
- 20% off additional treatment
No deductibles, no waiting periods, no hidden fees.
Your Child Doesn't Have to Struggle
Request a consultation and Dr. Smith will evaluate your child's needs. If a frenectomy is the right step, you'll know exactly what to expect before anything happens.