Frenectomy

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor oral surgical procedure that removes or releases a small band of tissue called the frenum. The frenum connects the lips, cheeks or tongue to the surrounding gums or floor of the mouth. In some individuals, this tissue is unusually short, thick or tight, restricting normal movement or placing excessive tension on the gums.

Why Is a Frenectomy Performed?

A frenectomy may be recommended when a restrictive frenum causes functional or dental problems. Depending on its location, it can have different impacts. Common reasons for a frenectomy include:

Benefits of a Frenectomy

A frenectomy can provide significant functional and long-term oral health benefits by eliminating the tension caused by a restrictive frenum. Releasing this tissue often improves tongue or lip mobility, making speaking, swallowing and other normal oral functions easier and more comfortable. In many cases, it also reduces excessive pulling on the gums, helping to lower the risk of future gum recession. For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, a frenectomy may improve treatment outcomes by minimizing the chance of a gap between the teeth reopening after orthodontic correction.

Types of Frenectomy

Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue-Tie)

A lingual frenectomy is a procedure that releases the restrictive band of tissue beneath the tongue when it limits normal tongue movement. Restricted tongue mobility, commonly known as tongue-tie, can interfere with breastfeeding in infants and may affect speech development, swallowing and proper tongue positioning. By improving tongue mobility, a lingual frenectomy can enhance oral function and contribute to more normal speech, feeding and swallowing.

Labial Frenectomy (Lip-Tie)

A labial frenectomy is a procedure that removes or releases the frenum connecting the upper or lower lip to the gums when it restricts normal movement or contributes to dental problems. A tight or prominent frenum can place excessive tension on the gums, increasing the risk of gum recession, and may create or maintain a gap between the upper front teeth. It can also interfere with orthodontic treatment and make brushing and flossing more difficult. By releasing the restrictive tissue, a labial frenectomy improves lip mobility, supports better oral hygiene and can help achieve more stable orthodontic results.

What Should I Expect During the Procedure?

A frenectomy is one of the simplest oral surgical procedures and usually takes only a few minutes. During the procedure:

What Should I Expect After a Frenectomy?

Recovery is generally quick and uncomplicated.

It is normal to experience, mild soreness or tenderness, slight swelling for a few days, minor bleeding during the first several hours and temporary discomfort while eating or speaking. Most patients resume normal activities the same day or the following day. If sutures are placed, they are often dissolvable or removed during a short follow-up visit. For tongue-tie treatment, stretching exercises may be recommended to help promote proper healing and reduce the likelihood of the tissue reattaching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need Sutures?

Some frenectomies require a few small sutures, while others do not. Your dentist will determine the best approach based on the location and extent of the procedure.

How Long Does Healing Take?

Most soft tissue healing occurs within one to two weeks, although complete tissue remodeling continues for several weeks.

Can Adults Get a Frenectomy?

Yes. Frenectomies are commonly performed on both children and adults and can improve oral function, gum health and orthodontic outcomes.

Is a frenectomy performed with a laser?

Some frenectomies can be performed using either a traditional surgical technique or a dental laser.

Will My Insurance Cover a Frenectomy?

Coverage varies depending on your dental insurance plan and the reason for treatment. Our office will gladly review your benefits and provide an estimate before your procedure. Some frenectomies can be performed using either a traditional surgical technique or a dental laser.

Why Choose Lakeview Dental?

Our goal is to make every extraction as comfortable, efficient and stress-free as possible. We carefully evaluate each case, explain your treatment options, answer your questions and provide detailed instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery. Whenever possible, we also discuss long-term tooth replacement options to restore your smile and maintain your oral health.

Additional Resources: 

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

What Is a Frenectomy? – AAOMS Patient Education