What Is a Dental Frenectomy and When Is It Necessary

 A dental frenectomy is a simple procedure that involves the removal or modification of the frenulum, a small band of tissue that connects two parts of the mouth. There are two main frenulums in the mouth: one connects the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth, and the other connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If these frenulums are too tight or thick, they can cause a variety of oral issues. Dr. Nida Khateeb at Dentokraftt Dental Clinic is one of the experts who can help you understand if a frenectomy is needed and guide you through the procedure.

The frenulum’s role is to allow normal movement of the lips and tongue. However, when it is overly restrictive, it can interfere with your daily activities, such as speaking, eating, or even breathing. In some cases, the tight frenulum may also cause pain or discomfort. A dental frenectomy is performed to remove or release this tissue to prevent or correct these problems.

When Is a Frenectomy Necessary?

A frenectomy is generally recommended in certain situations where the frenulum is causing issues. Here are a few reasons why a frenectomy may be necessary:

1. Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia): One of the most common reasons for a frenectomy is a condition called tongue-tie, where the frenulum under the tongue is too short or tight. This can limit the tongue's range of motion and make it difficult for a child to breastfeed, or for an adult to speak clearly or eat properly. A frenectomy can release the tongue and allow for better mobility.

2. Lip-Tie: Just like tongue-tie, a lip-tie occurs when the frenulum connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight. This can cause problems with breastfeeding in infants or difficulty with certain facial movements and speech as children grow older. A lip-tie can also affect dental health by causing gaps between the front teeth. A frenectomy can resolve these issues.

3. Difficulty with Oral Hygiene: If the frenulum causes your lips or tongue to be restricted, it can make it harder to brush your teeth properly. This can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, or cavities. By performing a frenectomy, it may become easier to clean your teeth and maintain better oral hygiene.

4. Speech Problems: In some cases, a tight frenulum can interfere with speech. Children or adults with a restricted frenulum may have trouble pronouncing certain words or sounds clearly. A frenectomy can improve speech by allowing for better tongue movement.

5. Gum Recession or Tension: Sometimes, a tight frenulum can cause tension in the gums or even contribute to gum recession. The extra pull on the gums can lead to irritation or discomfort. In such cases, a frenectomy can reduce this strain and protect the health of your gums.

How Is a Frenectomy Done?

A dental frenectomy is a quick and straightforward procedure. It can be done in the dental office with local anesthesia, which ensures that the area is numb and pain-free during the procedure. In some cases, a laser may be used for a more precise and less invasive treatment. The dentist will carefully cut or remove the frenulum, and the area will heal relatively quickly. The procedure is usually well-tolerated, and most people experience only minimal discomfort afterward.

Conclusion

In many cases, a dental frenectomy can be a simple yet effective solution to address a variety of oral health issues related to the frenulum. Whether it's for tongue-tie, lip-tie, or problems with speech and oral hygiene, this procedure can make a significant difference in your quality of life. If you think you or your child might benefit from a frenectomy, Dr. Nida Khateeb at Dentokraftt Dental Clinic can help assess the situation and guide you toward the best course of action.