What Is a Frenectomy?
When it comes to oral health, some procedures sound more complicated than they really are. One such procedure is the frenectomy—a common and relatively simple treatment that can have a big impact on a person’s comfort, function, and even speech.
So what exactly is a frenectomy, and who needs one? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenum—a small fold of tissue that connects two parts of the mouth. There are several frena in the mouth, but the two most commonly involved in frenectomies are:
- Lingual frenum: the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth
- Labial frenum: the tissue connecting the inside of the upper or lower lip to the gums above or below the front teeth
If a frenum is too tight, thick, or short, it can cause problems with movement, spacing, speech, or even feeding in infants. That’s when a frenectomy might be recommended.
Types of Frenectomies
There are two main types:
- Lingual Frenectomy
This is performed when a person has tongue-tie (also called ankyloglossia), a condition where the lingual frenum restricts the tongue’s range of motion. It’s common in infants and can interfere with breastfeeding, but it can also affect older children and adults—leading to speech difficulties, oral hygiene challenges, or discomfort during eating. - Labial Frenectomy
This is often done to address lip-tie or when the upper frenum causes a large gap between the front teeth. In some cases, it can also pull on the gum tissue and contribute to gum recession. It’s sometimes recommended during orthodontic treatment or if dentures or braces are affected by the frenum.
Who Might Need a Frenectomy?
You might be a candidate for a frenectomy if:
- Your infant has trouble latching or feeding
- You or your child have speech difficulties caused by tongue restriction
- There’s a visible gap between the front teeth that won’t close with braces alone
- You experience pain or difficulty moving your tongue or lips normally
- A frenum is causing tension or pulling on the gums or dental appliances
What to Expect During the Procedure
A frenectomy is typically quick and performed in a dental office or oral surgery clinic. It may be done using:
- Scalpel or surgical scissors
- Laser (increasingly common due to faster healing and less discomfort)
The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes, and local anesthesia is used (or topical anesthetic in babies). Laser frenectomies often result in minimal bleeding and faster recovery times.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery is usually straightforward. Mild discomfort and swelling may occur for a few days. In infants, feeding may improve almost immediately. For older children and adults, stretching exercises may be recommended to prevent tissue reattachment and ensure proper healing.
Most people can return to normal activities within a day or two.
Final Thoughts
A frenectomy may be a small procedure, but it can make a big difference in daily life—improving speech, eating, oral hygiene, and even self-confidence. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms related to a tongue-tie or lip-tie, contact an oral surgeon in Simi Valley to see if a frenectomy is the right solution. It’s a simple fix with life-changing results.