Frenums and the Frenectomy Procedure

There are two types of frenums in your mouth, which are the lingual frenum and the labial frenum. Both are connective tissue membranes that are responsible for attaching surfaces of your mouth together. The lingual frenum can be found between the floor of your mouth and the base of your tongue, whereas the labial frenum is found in the upper arch.

If a frenum is too large or unusually shaped, a frenectomy can be performed in order to correct this issue and restore full functionality. A frenectomy is commonly performed on infants who are unable to breastfeed, due to inability to latch. Most frenectomies that are performed on adults are done so to correct the issue of being tongue-tied, which can occur due to limited tongue movement. A frenectomy can also be performed to prevent a gap from developing between the front teeth and to improve the fit and functionality of dentures. The procedure is relatively painless and involves the removal of part of the frenum using either a scalpel or laser.

Frenectomy for Infants

An infant frenectomy is a safe procedure that is commonly performed on infants who are born with their lingual frenum still attached to the bottom of their tongue. In most cases, this frenum naturally separates, but when it does not, there are a range of mild to moderate issues that can develop, one of the biggest among newborns being difficulty nursing. If left untreated, this may result in additional issues developing, such as tongue-tie, difficulty eating, increased risk of developing other oral issues and more. Fortunately, the frenectomy procedure is a safe and simple procedure that can be performed to prevent these issues from developing.

Procedure and Aftercare for Adults

For adults who require a frenectomy, the procedure will begin with administration of a local anesthetic and dental sedation if necessary. Next, the frenulum is removed with a surgical knife or with a laser. Electrocautery, which involves burning the tissue with a heated electrode can also be an effective method. Whatever approach is taken, the procedure should not take too long, and you will experience minimal discomfort.

In order to reduce your risk of developing complications and have a speedy recovery following your frenectomy, be sure to follow these aftercare instructions, as well as any special instructions provided by your periodontist.

• Ice pack therapy can help relieve discomfort or pain. Be sure to place the ice packs on the affected area for ten-minute intervals.
• If given antibiotics, take as prescribed until prescription runs out
• Over the counter pain relief medication can help alleviate discomfort
• Use gauze to clean the surgical area
• Saltwater gargles or rinses twice daily for the first three days
• Be mindful of what foods you eat. Immediately following the procedure, stick to a clear liquid diet until the bleeding stops. After this, you can transition to a soft food diet, which you should follow for three to five days, making sure to avoid hot or spicy foods. Be mindful that you slowly reintroduce harder foods as the healing process moves along.
• Continue brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily

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