A frenectomy is a simple dental procedure that involves removing or adjusting a small piece of tissue called a “frenum” that is found in the mouth. The frenum is a thin strip of tissue that connects the lips to the gums or the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
We include this treatment as part of our broader periodontal services when the frenum affects gum health or contributes to spacing issues. While this tissue is important for normal mouth function, sometimes it can cause problems, and that’s when a frenectomy might be necessary.
Who Needs a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or modifies a small fold of tissue called a frenum, which connects parts of the mouth, such as the lips, cheeks, and tongue, to the gums or underlying bone. While this tissue is normal and present in everyone, an overly tight or thick frenum can cause several functional and developmental problems. In these cases, a frenectomy becomes necessary to restore normal oral movement, improve dental health, and enhance overall comfort.
One of the most common reasons for a frenectomy is to correct a tongue-tie. This occurs when the lingual frenum, the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is too short or tight. A tongue-tie can restrict tongue movement, making it difficult for infants to breastfeed properly and for children to develop clear speech.
In older patients, it may interfere with eating, swallowing, or oral hygiene. By releasing the frenum, a frenectomy allows for full tongue mobility, improving function and comfort almost immediately.
Another frequent reason for a frenectomy is a lip-tie, which happens when the frenum attaching the upper or lower lip to the gums is too tight or extends too far down. This can pull on the gums and create a gap, or diastema, between the front teeth.
In children, this may interfere with proper tooth alignment or orthodontic treatment. In severe cases, a lip-tie can also make it painful to move the lips normally or cause difficulty with brushing and flossing. Performing a frenectomy helps relieve tension, allowing the lips to move freely and the gums to heal properly.
Additionally, a tight frenum can contribute to gum recession by constantly pulling on the gum tissue. This tension can expose tooth roots and increase sensitivity or risk of decay. Removing the problematic tissue helps protect the gums and maintain a healthy smile.
What Happens During a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is typically a quick and simple procedure in your dentist’s office. The dentist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure. Depending on the location of the frenum, your dentist may use a scalpel or laser to remove or adjust the tissue. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes and doesn’t require stitches.
After the frenectomy, your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for the area to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. The recovery time is usually short, and most people feel better within a few days.
What Are the Benefits of a Frenectomy?
There are many benefits to a frenectomy. They help you regain full mouth function, as well as the benefits listed below.
- Improves everyday function: A frenectomy removes or loosens a tight frenulum, which allows the tongue or lip to move freely. This improved movement makes speaking, eating, and cleaning the mouth easier. Many patients notice that tasks that once felt difficult become natural again.
- Helps infants feed more effectively: A tight frenulum can make breastfeeding challenging because babies cannot latch or suck properly. After a frenectomy, infants often feed more comfortably and gain weight more easily. This creates a better experience for both the baby and the parent.
- Supports better oral hygiene: Restricted mouth movement can make brushing and flossing more difficult. A frenectomy reduces tension and gives better access to all areas of the mouth. This helps prevent cavities, gum irritation, and plaque buildup.
- Protects gum health: A tight lip frenulum can pull on the gums, contributing to gum recession. Releasing the tissue decreases this pressure and protects the gum line. This can help prevent long-term gum problems and maintain a healthier smile.
- Improves tooth alignment: A tight frenulum can sometimes create spaces between the teeth or add pressure that shifts them out of place. A frenectomy reduces this strain and helps keep the teeth aligned. It also supports orthodontic treatment by removing tissue that may interfere with braces or aligners.
- Enhances speech clarity: Tongue-tie can make it hard to form specific sounds correctly. After a frenectomy, many children and adults speak more clearly and confidently. Early treatment can also support normal speech development in young children.
- Reduces oral discomfort: A tight frenulum can cause soreness or pulling during talking, eating, or smiling. A frenectomy relieves this tension and makes movement more comfortable. Many people feel immediate relief after the procedure.
- Makes eating easier and more comfortable: People with restricted oral movement may avoid certain foods or struggle to chew properly. A frenectomy restores natural movement, making eating more enjoyable. It also supports better digestion by allowing thorough chewing.
- Boosts confidence and quality of life: When people speak clearly, eat comfortably, and smile without restriction, they feel more confident in daily life. Children communicate more easily, adults feel less self-conscious, and families often notice positive changes quickly.
- Offers a quick and effective solution: A frenectomy is a simple procedure with minimal discomfort and fast healing. The benefits often appear right away, making it a highly effective treatment for tongue-tie or lip-tie problems.
How to Care for Your Mouth After a Frenectomy
After a frenectomy, it’s important to follow your dentist’s care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. You’ll likely experience mild discomfort and swelling in the first few days following your procedure. Use a cold compress off and on throughout the day to minimize swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help you with pain management and inflammation.
It’s essential to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection. Continue brushing your teeth, but be gentle and avoid harsh brushing directly around the surgical site. Rinse out your mouth with warm saltwater a few times a day, especially after meals, to soothe it and keep it free from debris. Using an antiseptic mouth rinse can also help with bacterial control.
Stick to a soft diet for the first few days after the procedure. Minimize how much you’ll be chewing and moving your mouth around. Things like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies are all good options. Avoid foods that are too spicy or acidic, as they can irritate the site. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth free of debris and the area hydrated.
If your frenectomy treated a tight tongue frenum, we may recommend exercises to do while you’re healing. We want to ensure your tongue can move freely and eliminate the possibility of reattachment. Exercises help promote flexibility and minimize the development of scar tissue. This is especially crucial for children with speaking or eating concerns.
How We Can Help
If you or your child is experiencing issues with a tight frenum, such as difficulty speaking, eating, or having a gap between the front teeth, a frenectomy might be the solution. At North Shore Periodontics and Implantology, we provide the best care for your oral health. If you have any questions or concerns about whether a frenectomy is right for you, feel free to contact us. We can help you decide the best course of action to improve your comfort and smile.