Before we dive into discussing and defining the actual dental procedure known as a frenectomy, let’s go over some basic definitions that will help you to better acquaint yourself with why someone may need to get one. A lot of people may not know what a frenum is, let alone its purpose in your mouth!
This article will explain the anatomy of the frenum as well as the frenectomy procedure and signs that you or your child may need one.
What is a frenum?
A frenum is the soft connective tissue that forms a thin line between the gums and lip. You have one on top and on the bottom of your mouth in front of your teeth. There is also another frenum that extends from the bottom of your tongue to the bottom of your mouth behind the teeth. Everyone’s frenum’s area is different and sometimes they can hinder someone’s ability to use their mouth, thus, the need for a frenectomy.
What is a frenectomy?
Now that we know what is being treated in the dentist’s office, let’s dive into the procedure itself. A frenectomy is a minor in-office oral laser surgery that removes the frenum (connective tissue) located under the tongue (called lingual frenum) or the band that attaches the upper lip to the gums (labial frenum) and each has its own procedure, detailed below:
Lingual frenectomy:
When the lingual frenum that connects the tongue to the bottom of your mouth is removed, that is called a lingual frenectomy. This helps release ankyloglossia or a “tongue tie.” Using a laser to release the tongue can greatly help an infant with breastfeeding and their upcoming speech development and reduced airway occlusion that helps the child eat more comfortably and efficiently.
Maxillary frenectomy:
The procedure is done to loosen the labial frenum. When the labial frenum that attaches the upper lip to the upper gum is removed, it is called a maxillary frenectomy. If left untreated, this can cause orthodontic issues with the teeth as well as oral hygiene issues with the front teeth as tissue can make for poor spacing.
How is a frenectomy done?
The surgical procedure can be done in a few different ways, from a scalpel, electrosurgery or laser surgery. Laser frenectomies are becoming more and more popular because of how accurate the results are and how quick the procedure and recovery time is. Also, with the laser, very little damage is seen when looking at all of the surrounding tissue after the surgery, which is very important.
How does the procedure work?
If you or your child are dealing with the issues brought on by having an elongated frenum, then a frenectomy may be recommended by your dentist. An oral surgeon will be called in to do the procedure. Your oral surgeon will examine the frenum and determine if a frenectomy is necessary and which type is needed.
The procedure only takes about 10-15 minutes and will usually be done in the oral surgeon’s office. The oral surgeon will add a topical anesthetic to the area and they will use their tool (laser, scalpel, etc.) to remove the frenum tissue. Stitches may be required for more complicated frenectomies.
The patient will be given pain medication to help with the soreness they may feel after. For aftercare, the patient should keep the area clean and try to limit tongue or lip movement as much as possible. Recovery only takes about two weeks, on average.
What are some signs that my child may need a frenectomy?
For smaller children:
- Inability to open mouth wide
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Pain when mother’s nurses
- Excessive gas
- Heart-shaped tip of the tongue
For older children:
- Lower jaw protrusion
- Eating and digestion issues
- Speech difficulty
- A gap in top or bottom front teeth
Frenectomies are quite simple procedures that can be done in a matter of minutes in your oral surgeon’s office. They are becoming more and more commonplace because dentists and patients alike are seeing everything the procedure can help with, such as speech development and breastfeeding.
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At Mountain and Sea Dental, our practice can handle the needs of children and adults alike. We offer everything from comfortable and necessary check-ups, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and every service in between. Our team of professionals is here to help and listen to your concerns and offer a relaxing atmosphere for your check-ups and more.
Don’t settle for less than quality care for you and your family’s dental health. Our team of professionals will work hard to provide you with the best care and we will also keep you smiling after your visit as well. We have been proudly serving Santa Barbara, Montecito, Goleta, and surrounding areas since 2007 within family and pediatric dentistry. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.