Frenectomy
At Leading Edge, we specialize in performing frenectomies to improve oral health and function. Whether it’s for infants, children, or adults, our experienced team is committed to providing safe and effective treatment. A frenectomy can resolve issues caused by restrictive frenulum attachments, enhancing speech, eating, and overall oral hygiene.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing or altering a frenum, which is a small fold of tissue that restricts the movement of the tongue or lips. This procedure can be performed by an experienced oral & maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist.
There are two main types of frenectomies:
- Lingual Frenectomy: Targets the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (tongue-tie).
- Labial Frenectomy: Targets the tissue connecting the inside of the upper or lower lip to the gum (lip-tie).
A frenectomy may be done with or without gum grafting. It is very important that one of our doctors be consulted when orthodontic treatment is planned, as the removal of an irregular frenum can significantly improve the success and stability of your orthodontic treatment.
Who Needs a Frenectomy?
Most of the time, frenectomies are performed on babies who are having feeding issues or if there are speech concerns. But sometimes, frenectomies are necessary for adults, too. For example, sometimes a frenum can be so tight that it pulls your gums away from your teeth. A frenectomy frees the band of connective tissue, reducing the risk of gaps, gum recession and other oral health problems.
Frenectomies are performed to address several issues:
- Infants: To resolve feeding difficulties caused by tongue-tie or lip-tie.
- Children: To improve speech development and oral hygiene.
- Adults: To alleviate discomfort, improve oral function, or assist in orthodontic treatment.
Signs That a Frenectomy May Be Needed
- Difficulty Nursing: Infants struggling to latch during breastfeeding.
- Speech Issues: Speech impediments or difficulty articulating certain sounds.
- Eating Difficulties: Problems with chewing or swallowing food.
- Dental Health Problems: Gaps between teeth or gum recession.
- Oral Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the mouth during movement.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
- Improved Oral Function: Enhances the ability to speak, eat, and perform oral hygiene effectively.
- Relief from Discomfort: Alleviates pain and discomfort caused by restrictive frenums.
- Better Dental Health: Prevents gum recession and gaps between teeth, contributing to overall oral health.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Especially for infants and children, it can significantly improve feeding and speech development.
The Frenectomy Procedure
-
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
During your consultation, our experienced specialists will perform a thorough examination to determine if a frenectomy is necessary. We will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have.
-
Anesthesia
To ensure a comfortable experience, local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area. For younger patients or those with anxiety, we offer sedation options to help them relax during the procedure.
-
Performing the Frenectomy
Using precision surgical instruments or laser technology, our specialists will carefully remove or modify the restrictive frenum. This procedure is quick, often completed within minutes, and involves minimal discomfort.
-
Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, we will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize any discomfort. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and ensure optimal results.
-
Frenectomy Recovery Time
A full recovery will take approximately four weeks. In the first three days, a white patch will form over the area. Within the first week, the stitches will dissolve and fall out and the pain, bleeding, and soreness will go down. In the final weeks, the healing patch will shrink, and by the fourth week, you should have a completely healed frenulum.
Why Choose Leading Edge for Your Frenectomy?
At Leading Edge, our skilled oral surgeons and periodontists have extensive experience in performing frenectomies for patients of all ages. We use advanced techniques and the latest technology to ensure precise, safe, and effective treatment. Our compassionate approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be resolved with a frenectomy, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let Leading Edge help you achieve better oral function and health.
Find one of our convenient locations
Contact Us
Fields marked with “*” are required.
"*" indicates required fields