A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to remove or modify a frenum — the small band of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the gums or floor of the mouth. In children, an abnormal or tight frenum can interfere with normal oral development, speech, feeding, or dental alignment. Frenectomies are commonly performed on the lip (labial frenectomy) or under the tongue (lingual frenectomy).
When recommended, a frenectomy can significantly improve oral function and comfort. The procedure is quick, safe, and often performed to support proper tooth positioning, speech development, or successful orthodontic treatment.
A frenectomy is usually recommended when the frenum causes functional or developmental problems. Below are some common reasons a frenectomy may be necessary:
An upper lip frenum that is too tight may contribute to spacing between the front teeth, difficulty cleaning the teeth properly, or challenges with lip mobility. In some cases, it can also affect feeding.
A tight or short lingual frenum can restrict tongue movement, affecting speech development, swallowing, and oral hygiene. In infants, tongue-tie may also interfere with breastfeeding.
A prominent frenum can prevent orthodontic treatment from achieving stable results. Removing the frenum may be necessary to allow teeth to move into proper alignment and reduce the risk of spacing reopening after braces.
An abnormal frenum can pull on the gums, increasing the risk of recession and irritation over time. This can make oral hygiene more difficult and may lead to inflammation around the gum line.
A frenectomy is typically a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. Depending on your child’s age, cooperation level, and medical needs, the procedure may be performed using local anesthesia or as part of a planned surgical visit under anesthesia.
During the procedure, the frenum is carefully released or removed using specialized surgical instruments or laser technology. The area heals quickly, and discomfort is usually minimal. Most children recover rapidly and return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.
If you have any questions or concerns about frenectomy treatment, please contact your oral health care provider to determine whether this procedure is appropriate for your child.
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