Frenectomy The small fold of tissue in the body that helps keep organs in place is called the frenulum. In the mouth, the frenulum plays an important role by connecting the lips to the gums and the tongue to the floor of the mouth. However, if a frenulum is unusually short, tight, or thick, it can interfere with normal function. In infants, this can make breastfeeding difficult. In children, it may affect speech or swallowing. In adults, it can contribute to gum recession, discomfort, or difficulty with oral hygiene.A frenectomy is a simple procedure that removes or reshapes excess frenulum tissue so the lips, tongue, and gums can function properly. At Stonewall Dental Associates, our periodontal team provides skilled and compassionate care to help patients of all ages benefit from improved comfort and oral health. Types Of FrenectomyThere are two main types of frenectomy: lingual and maxillary. A lingual frenectomy involves the lingual frenum, the band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If this frenum is too short or tight, it can restrict tongue movement. This condition, often called tongue-tie or ankyloglossia, can affect infants by making feeding difficult and may impact speech development in children. A maxillary frenectomy involves the labial frenum, which connects the upper lip to the gum tissue above the front teeth. When this tissue is too tight, it can cause a lip tie. Lip ties may interfere with proper dental development, create challenges with oral hygiene, and increase the risk of gum disease. A maxillary frenectomy can improve lip mobility and overall oral health. Frenectomy ProcedureA frenectomy is a safe, routine treatment that typically takes only a few minutes. For infants and children, a parent may be asked to help hold the child during the procedure to ensure comfort and safety. After applying a numbing anesthetic, the dentist or periodontist gently removes or reshapes the tissue using specialized instruments. Depending on the case, this may involve a scalpel, small surgical scissors, or a laser. Laser frenectomy offers the advantage of reducing bleeding, lowering the risk of infection, and often promoting faster healing. In some cases, a few tiny stitches may be needed. Adult FrenectomyAlthough tongue-ties and lip-ties are usually identified in infancy, some people reach adulthood before realizing that a frenum is causing problems. As the mouth develops, a tight or elongated frenum can lead to challenges with speech, eating, or oral hygiene. In adults, a short frenum can even contribute to gum recession by pulling on the gum tissue. When this occurs, a frenectomy may be recommended. Adult frenectomies are just as effective as those performed on children, though healing time may be slightly longer. Patients often find that their comfort, oral function, and ability to care for their teeth improve significantly after treatment. Recovery After The ProcedureRecovery from a frenectomy is usually quick and straightforward. Most patients heal within about a week. Infants may be able to feed more easily almost immediately after the procedure. For older children and adults, keeping the area clean is important to support healing. Soft foods and gentle oral care are recommended until the tissue heals. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Our team at Stonewall Dental Associates will provide you with clear aftercare instructions and support every step of the way. If you have questions about frenectomy or think you or your child may benefit from this procedure, contact us at (571) 454-9025. Our caring periodontal team is here to help restore comfort, function, and confidence in your smile. |
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