Frenectomy

Labial and lingual frenectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It corrects problems with the upper lip frenulum (labial frenulum) and the tongue frenulum (lingual frenulum). Sometimes, these frenulums are too short or too thick, limiting the mobility of the lip and tongue. This can lead to issues such as speech difficulties, poor dental occlusion, and sucking problems in infants.

What is labial and lingual frenectomy?

Frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that involves cutting or removing the short or thick frenulum of the upper lip or tongue. This intervention increases the mobility of the lip and tongue, thereby facilitating pronunciation, swallowing, and other important oral functions.

How is labial and lingual frenectomy performed?

Evaluation: Before the procedure, your dental surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of your labial or lingual frenulum to determine the need for frenectomy.

Anesthesia: During the procedure, you will be under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Frenectomy: The surgeon makes an incision in the lip or tongue frenulum. Then, they carefully remove the excess tissue to allow for greater mobility. Sometimes, stitches may be necessary.

Follow-up and recovery: After the procedure, you will receive instructions on postoperative care and pain management. Complete healing usually takes a few days, during which you may experience slight discomfort and swelling.

The benefits of labial and lingual frenectomy:

• Improved oral mobility: By removing short or thick frenulums, frenectomy increases the mobility of the lip and tongue, thus facilitating speech, swallowing, and sucking.
• Prevention of dental problems: By correcting frenulum issues, frenectomy helps prevent dental complications such as misalignment and occlusion disorders.
• Treatment of speech problems: For patients with speech difficulties due to a short lingual frenulum, frenectomy improves pronunciation and speech fluency.

Is labial and lingual frenectomy suitable for you?

If you have lip or tongue mobility issues due to a short or thick frenulum, frenectomy may be an appropriate solution. Make an appointment with our team of oral surgeons for an evaluation and a discussion of available treatment options.

Is frenectomy painful?

Frenectomy is not painful during the procedure. You are anesthetized and only feel pressure, without pain. Postoperative discomfort can last for 3 to 5 days. We will prescribe medication to avoid any pain.