Frenums and the Frenectomy Procedure

Inside everyone’s mouth are two types of connective tissue membranes that are responsible for attaching surfaces of the mouth together. These membranes are called frenums, and in your mouth you have both a lingual and a labial frenum. The lingual frenum connects from the base of your tongue to the floor of your mouth and the labial frenum connects the lip to the gum in your upper arch.

If either of these frenums becomes damaged or is irregularly shaped, complications can develop, resulting in the need for a frenectomy, which is a simple procedure that is performed to restore oral function back to the patient. One of the most common frenum-related issues is what is commonly referred to as being “tongue-tied” which makes it difficult for a person to pronounce certain words. Another common frenum-related issue that can develop is when an individual’s labial frenum is either too wide, too long, or both, which then creates space between their front two teeth. Fortunately, these issues can be easily corrected by a frenectomy procedure, which involves removal of part of the frenum using a scalpel or laser. This procedure is safe, effective, has a high success rate, and can be performed on patients of any age.

Infant Frenectomy

When most children are born, their lingual frenum naturally separates; however, in some cases, this frenum remains attached to the bottom of their tongue. When this occurs, the child will develop what is commonly referred to as “tongue-tie” or ankyloglossia. Though the reason tongue-tie occurs is unknown, the issue is more prevalent among males and research indicates genetic predisposition may play a role.

Though many parents may be concerned at the thought of their newborn having a surgical procedure, the frenectomy procedure is very fast and painless and has very small chance of complications. First, your infant is swaddled, and their tongue lifted gently up. Next, the frenum is snipped using sterile scissors and then evaluated to ensure the appropriate amount of the frenum has been clipped. Following this, the frenectomy will be complete. Immediately following this procedure, it is fine to resume breastfeeding. In fact, many infants will find this to be comforting. Additionally, many mothers notice an immediate improvement in their child’s ability to latch following the frenectomy procedure.

Aftercare Instructions

While the frenectomy is a relatively painless and low risk procedure, it is still important to closely follow aftercare instructions provided to you after your procedure to reduce your risk of developing complications and have a fast recovery. It will be necessary to schedule at least one follow up appointment following your procedure. During the time between your procedure and this follow up, things you can do to alleviate discomfort and assure a fast recovery process include:

  • Ice packs for controlling swelling and relieving discomfort
  • Over the counter or prescribed medication for pain relief
  • If prescribed antibiotic treatment, take as directed until the prescription runs out
  • Gauze can be used to clean the surgical area
  • Saltwater gargle or rinse three times daily for two to three days
  • Stick to a clear liquid diet initially and slowly reintroduce harder foods as discomfort subsides
  • Continue practicing good oral hygiene habits

More on Frenectomy : Cost of Frenectomy