Performing a frenectomy is a fast and relatively painless process. For adolescents and adults, we will provide a local anesthetic and/or dental sedation to reduce pain, discomfort, and/or anxiety during the procedure. Next, we will use a scalpel, laser, or combination of both to remove a small portion of the frenum. Once the frenum is removed, the wound is closed and the healing process can begin.

Once the procedure is complete, the recovery process following a frenectomy is very minimal, and will not require any modifications, though the area where the frenectomy was performed may be a bit tender at first. Discomfort or pain can typically be managed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It will also be important to limit tongue movement and keep the area where the frenectomy was performed clean following the procedure. Though uncommon, some patients may experience some side effects following the frenectomy, such as bleeding, temporary soreness, tongue numbness, infection, hematoma, and in very rare cases, development of scar tissue.

Following a frenectomy for your child, it is important to follow post-operative instructions to ensure a speedy recovery and minimize post procedural risk. If the frenectomy is performed on a newborn, most discomfort and pain can be alleviated by nursing your child. If this does not seem to help and they continue to express discomfort, you may give them the recommended dosage of children’s Tylenol. To facilitate the healing process and reduce risk of scarring, it is important to perform stretching exercises under the tongue and the upper lift, making sure that your fingernails do not need to be trimmed and washing and rinsing your hands before doing so. In addition to closely following post-procedural instructions, it will be necessary to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the area has healed properly and the frenectomy was successful. Though uncommon, a second frenectomy is occasionally necessary.