Lingual and Labial Frenectomy

At Madison Avenue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, LLC, Drs. Press and Silverman provide expert care for patients requiring a frenectomy. This minor surgical procedure removes or modifies the frenulum—a small band of tissue that can sometimes restrict movement and cause functional or dental issues.

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a simple and effective procedure that removes the frenulum, either under the tongue (lingual frenectomy) or between the upper lip and gums (labial frenectomy). When a frenulum is too short or tight, it can lead to speech difficulties, dental concerns, or limitations in oral function.

Indications for a Frenectomy

A frenectomy may be recommended for the following reasons:

• Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia): A tight or short frenulum can restrict tongue movement, impacting speech, swallowing, and even breastfeeding in infants. If left untreated, this condition can lead to difficulties in eating, drinking, and oral hygiene maintenance.
• Speech difficulties: Limited tongue mobility may interfere with proper pronunciation, making certain sounds difficult to articulate. This can be particularly concerning for young children developing speech patterns and adults experiencing persistent articulation challenges.
• Dental problems: A restrictive frenulum can contribute to spacing issues between the front teeth, gum recession, or difficulties with orthodontic treatment. In some cases, a labial frenulum can cause an excessive gap between the front teeth (diastema), requiring surgical intervention to support orthodontic closure.

The Frenectomy Procedure

A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation for patient comfort. The method used depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s needs. The procedure typically involves:

1. Evaluation: The surgeon will carefully assess the frenulum’s tightness and its impact on oral function.
2. Incision: Using a scalpel, or electrocautery, the frenulum is gently released or removed to improve movement and function.
3. Hemostasis: If necessary, small sutures may be placed to aid in healing, though many cases do not require them.
4. Post-Procedure Assessment: The doctor ensures the tissue release is adequate and provides instructions on aftercare and exercises to prevent reattachment.

Recovery and Aftercare

Following a frenectomy, patients may experience mild swelling or tenderness, which typically resolves within a few days. Post-procedure care includes:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.
• Gentle oral hygiene: Keeping the area clean is essential for proper healing. Patients should rinse with a prescribed or saltwater solution to reduce bacteria.
• Dietary adjustments: Avoiding spicy, acidic, or rough foods that may irritate the surgical site is recommended during the healing process.
• Stretching exercises: Patients, particularly infants and children, may be advised to perform tongue or lip exercises to improve mobility and prevent reattachment of the frenulum.
• Follow-up care: A follow-up visit may be scheduled to ensure proper healing and function.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

A frenectomy can provide significant benefits, including:

• Improved speech clarity and pronunciation.
• Enhanced ability to eat, drink, and swallow without discomfort.
• Reduced risk of dental misalignment and gum issues.
• Increased oral mobility for better hygiene and reduced risk of cavities and gum disease.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or your child have been advised to undergo a lingual or labial frenectomy, Drs. Press and Silverman are here to provide expert, compassionate care. Contact Madison Avenue Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, LLC today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.