Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of a frenulum, which is a small fold of tissue that connects the lip or tongue to the gum or floor of the mouth. This procedure is typically performed when a frenulum restricts normal movement or causes discomfort, leading to potential dental or speech issues.

At our dental clinic, we specialize in providing safe and effective frenectomy treatments for both children and adults to address functional or aesthetic concerns related to the frenulum.

What is a Frenulum?

The frenulum is a band of tissue that helps anchor the lip or tongue. There are two main types of frenulum that may require treatment:

Lingual Frenulum: This connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A tight lingual frenulum can limit tongue movement and is often referred to as “tongue-tie.” This condition may affect speech, eating, or oral hygiene.
Labial Frenulum: This connects the upper lip to the gums, above the upper front teeth. A tight labial frenulum can lead to issues such as gum recession or contribute to a gap between the front teeth.

Why is a Frenectomy Necessary?

A frenectomy is recommended when a tight or restrictive frenulum causes problems, including:

Speech Impairment: A restricted tongue (due to a tight lingual frenulum) can affect speech development, making it difficult for a child to pronounce certain sounds clearly.
Difficulty with Breastfeeding: In infants, a tight frenulum can hinder the ability to latch properly, leading to difficulty breastfeeding.
Dental Issues: A tight labial frenulum can cause gum recession or contribute to the spacing between teeth, especially in the upper front teeth. In some cases, it may also interfere with the proper alignment of the teeth.
Limited Tongue Mobility: A restrictive frenulum can limit the movement of the tongue, affecting eating, swallowing, and oral hygiene.

What to Expect During a Frenectomy Procedure

A frenectomy is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that typically takes just a few minutes to complete. Here’s what you can expect:

Consultation: We will assess your condition during a thorough examination and discuss the need for a frenectomy. If necessary, we will take X-rays or other images to evaluate the structure of the frenulum.
Local Anesthesia: To ensure comfort, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area where the frenulum is located. In some cases, a mild sedative may also be provided to help you relax.
Procedure: The frenulum is carefully snipped or lasered to release the tension. In some cases, sutures may be used to help with healing, but many frenectomies do not require stitches.
Recovery: The procedure typically has a short recovery time. You may experience some discomfort or swelling for a few days, but most patients heal quickly with minimal downtime. We will provide aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

Improved Oral Function: After a frenectomy, patients often experience improved tongue and lip mobility, which can enhance speech, eating, and oral hygiene.
Prevention of Future Dental Problems: For patients with gum recession or spacing between teeth caused by a tight frenulum, a frenectomy can help prevent further dental issues.
Easier Breastfeeding for Infants: For babies with tongue-tie, a frenectomy can significantly improve the ability to latch and feed properly.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance: In some cases, removing a labial frenulum can improve the appearance of the smile, particularly for patients with a gap between their front teeth.

Why Choose Us for Your Frenectomy?

Experienced Team: Our dental team has years of experience performing frenectomies with precision and care.
Minimally Invasive: We use advanced techniques to ensure a minimally invasive procedure, reducing discomfort and speeding up recovery.
Comprehensive Care: From your initial consultation to your post-surgery follow-up, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring optimal results and a smooth recovery.
Comfort and Convenience: We prioritize your comfort, offering local anesthesia and sedation options to ensure you feel relaxed and at ease throughout the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a frenectomy painful?

A frenectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia, so the area will be numb during the procedure, making it virtually pain-free. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area, but this usually resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort during recovery.

How long does it take to recover from a frenectomy?

Recovery from a frenectomy is usually quick. Most patients experience minimal downtime and can return to normal activities within 1 to 2 days. Some mild swelling, discomfort, or bleeding may occur, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days. Following the aftercare instructions provided by our team will help ensure a smooth recovery process.

Can a frenectomy be done for adults?

Yes, a frenectomy can be performed on adults as well. While the procedure is more commonly done in infants or children, adults can benefit from a frenectomy if they have issues such as tongue-tie, speech difficulties, or a gap between the front teeth caused by a tight labial frenulum. The procedure is safe and effective at any age and can provide long-term benefits for oral function and aesthetics.

We Can Help You

Have questions or ready to schedule your appointment? Our team is here to help! Reach out to us today – we’re excited to assist you in achieving your best smile.