SURGICAL CARE
Frenectomy
Release a restrictive frenum when it interferes with oral function, tissue health or selected dental treatment.
A frenum that is unusually tight or positioned can create problems ranging from a gap between front teeth to difficulty with speech or feeding, depending on which frenum is involved and how it’s affecting function.
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SURGICAL DENTISTRY
Frenectomy at Valencia Dental Office
A frenum is a small band of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks or tongue to surrounding oral structures. When a frenum is unusually tight or positioned in a way that creates functional or dental problems, a frenectomy may be recommended to release or modify the tissue.
Because not every prominent frenum causes a problem, treatment is recommended only when it’s genuinely contributing to a functional, periodontal or treatment-related issue.
WHEN A FRENECTOMY IS CONSIDERED
Function Comes First
- Speech or feeding difficultyA restrictive frenum, especially under the tongue, can sometimes affect these functions, particularly in infants and young children.
- A gap between front teethA frenum attached in a certain position can contribute to a persistent space between the upper front teeth.
- Gum recession riskTension from a frenum can pull on the gum tissue in ways that contribute to recession over time.
- Interference with dental treatmentSome orthodontic or restorative treatment plans are affected by a frenum’s position.
THE PROCEDURE
What a Frenectomy Involves
- EvaluationThe frenum is evaluated in the context of function, speech, gum health, tooth position and age.
- Numbing the areaLocal anesthetic keeps treatment comfortable.
- Releasing the tissueThe frenum is carefully released or modified using the technique appropriate for the area.
- Healing guidanceYou are given instructions to support comfortable healing, which is typically quick for this procedure.
WHERE FRENECTOMIES ARE PERFORMED
More Than One Frenum Can Be Involved
Different frenula can each create their own specific concerns.
Lingual frenum
Located under the tongue; can affect tongue mobility, speech or feeding.
Labial frenum
Connects the lip to the gum; can contribute to a gap between front teeth.
Buccal frenum
Found along the cheek; can occasionally affect gum health or denture fit.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When to Schedule a Visit
Not every prominent frenum needs treatment. A frenectomy should be recommended because the tissue is contributing to a specific functional, periodontal or treatment-related problem.
- A persistent gap between the front teeth has been linked to a frenum
- You or your child has been told a tight frenum may be affecting feeding or speech
- Gum recession appears to be related to tension from a frenum
- An orthodontic or restorative treatment plan has identified a frenum as a factor
RECOVERY
What Healing Typically Looks Like
This is generally a quick procedure with a comparatively short recovery, though your dentist will give you specific guidance based on the technique used and the area treated.
Following any stretching or aftercare instructions you’re given can help support a good long-term result.
Frenectomy FAQ
- What does frenectomy involve?
- A frenum is a small band of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks or tongue to surrounding oral structures. When a frenum is unusually tight or positioned in a way that creates functional or dental problems, a frenectomy may be recommended to release or modify the tissue.
- How do I know whether this treatment is appropriate for me?
- Not every prominent frenum needs treatment. A frenectomy should be recommended because the tissue is contributing to a specific functional, periodontal or treatment-related problem.
- What should I expect from the treatment process?
- The frenum is evaluated in the context of function, speech, gum health, tooth position and age. When treatment is indicated, the tissue is carefully released using the technique appropriate for the area.
- At what age can a frenectomy be performed?
- It can be performed at various ages, from infancy through adulthood, depending on the reason for treatment.
- Is a frenectomy painful?
- Local anesthetic is used, and recovery is generally comparatively quick for this procedure.
- Will a frenectomy close a gap between my front teeth on its own?
- Not necessarily — depending on the case, orthodontic treatment may still be needed to close the space.
- How do I know if my child’s frenum needs treatment?
- This is evaluated in the context of feeding, speech and other functional concerns; not every prominent frenum needs treatment.
- What techniques are used for a frenectomy?
- The technique depends on the location and the specific case; your dentist will explain the approach recommended for you.
