If tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) limits breastfeeding, speech, or oral function, you’re not alone—4–10% of infants are affected. Yet many delay frenectomies due to fragmented care or confusing costs. Direct Primary Care (DPC) transforms this journey by offering same-day procedures, transparent pricing, and support that prioritizes your comfort—from consult to recovery.
A frenectomy removes or loosens the lingual (tongue) or labial (lip) frenulum, enhancing mobility. Performed with scissors, lasers, or electrocautery, it’s quick (5–15 minutes) and often requires no stitches. Ideal for infants with breastfeeding issues or adults with speech challenges.
Key facts for patients:
Uses: Treat ankyloglossia, improve breastfeeding, enhance speech clarity.
Safety: Low risk of bleeding/infection; local anesthesia for adults.
Costs: Traditional clinics charge 500–2,000 USD; DPC reduces fees by 20–30%.
Risks of delayed care:
Persistent breastfeeding difficulties leading to early weaning.
Speech delays or dental issues (e.g., gap between front teeth).
Financial stress from unplanned lactation consults or speech therapy.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) operates on a membership model (100–200 USD/month), providing unlimited access to a provider who coordinates every phase—from assessment to aftercare.
Infant evaluations: Screen for tongue-tie during well-child visits, avoiding lactation consultant delays.
Laser precision: Use in-office lasers for bloodless, precise cuts (if available).
Flexible scheduling: Perform frenectomies during routine visits, no separate appointment needed.
All-inclusive pricing: No hidden fees for anesthesia, follow-ups, or wound checks.
Reduced fees: DPC members pay 400–1,500 USD vs. 2,000+ USD traditionally.
Lactation collaboration: Partner with IBCLCs to ensure post-procedure breastfeeding success.
24/7 access: Message your provider about post-op discomfort or feeding concerns.
Custom exercises: Teach parents stretches to prevent reattachment in infants.
Speech referrals: Coordinate with therapists if needed for older children/adults.
Case 1: Baby Mia, struggling to latch
Mia’s DPC provider performed a laser frenectomy at her 2-week checkup. Breastfeeding improved within days, avoiding formula costs (saving 1,500 USD annually).
Case 2: Liam, 7, with speech delays
Liam’s DPC clinic identified tongue-tie during a physical. Post-frenectomy speech therapy corrected his articulation—all under transparent pricing.
Q: Does it hurt for infants?
A: Discomfort is minimal. Breastfeeding immediately post-procedure soothes babies.
Q: How soon can we resume feeding?
A: Right away. Breastmilk’s antibodies aid healing.
Q: Can adults benefit from frenectomies?
A: Yes. Improves denture fit, speech, or sleep apnea linked to restricted tongues.
The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes early frenectomy for breastfeeding success. DPC delivers by:
Slashing delays: 90% of infants receive frenectomies within 2 weeks vs. 6+ weeks traditionally.
Boosting success: 95% breastfeeding improvement vs. 70% with delayed care.
Cutting costs: Members save 600–1,500 USD through bundled pricing.
A frenectomy isn’t just a procedure—it’s a gateway to better feeding, clearer speech, and confident smiles. With DPC, you gain a partner who ensures swift care, compassionate follow-up, and results that let you—or your child—thrive. No red tape, no surprise bills—just freedom to move forward.
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