What Is Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete or partial removal of a band of muscle and connective tissue in the mouth called the frenulum. The frenulum is a small piece of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the structures inside the mouth. When these tissues are excessively short, thick, or positioned too high, it can affect the normal function of the teeth, gums, speech, or jaw movements. This procedure repositions or cuts muscle connections. It is effective in prosthetic applications or in the treatment of gum recessions. It facilitates the maintenance of oral hygiene and achieves aesthetically pleasing results.
Types of Frenulum in the Mouth
• Labial Frenulum: Located between the upper or lower lip and the gums
• Lingual Frenulum: Connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth
• Buccal Frenulum: Located between the inside of the cheek and the gum (rarely requires frenectomy)
Why Is a Frenectomy Performed?
A frenectomy is usually performed in cases where the frenulum causes functional impairment. The following are common reasons for this procedure:
Teeth and Gum Problems
• Diastema (Tooth Gap): When the upper labial frenulum extends between the teeth, it can create a gap between the two front teeth
• Gum Recession: The lower labial frenulum can pull the gum tissue, causing recession
Speech Problems
• Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie): When the lingual frenulum is short or thick, it can restrict tongue movement and cause speech disorders
Feeding Difficulties
• In newborns, a tongue-tie can create sucking and feeding problems
Orthodontic and Prosthetic Treatments
• The incorrect position of the frenulum can make it difficult to fit dentures or perform orthodontic treatment
Restriction in Lip Movements
• An excessively tight upper lip frenulum can hinder lip movement
How Is a Frenectomy Performed?
A frenectomy is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure lasts between 10–30 minutes. The procedure varies depending on age, the location of the frenulum, and the severity of the problem.
Procedure Steps
• Preparation: The area is numbed with local anesthesia. In some cases, general anesthesia may be required (especially for young children)
• Incision Procedure:
• Scalpel: The frenulum tissue is surgically removed using the traditional method
• Laser: Used to reduce bleeding and speed up recovery time
• Electrocautery: Preferred for cutting tissue and controlling bleeding at the same time
• Suture: In some cases, stitches are placed in the area. Most of the time, the stitches are self-dissolving
• Dressing: After the procedure, the area is cleaned and covered for protection
Types of Frenectomy
• Labial Frenectomy: Removal of the upper or lower lip frenulum. It is usually performed if there is a diastema between the teeth
• Lingual Frenectomy: The procedure to release the frenulum under the tongue. It is used in the treatment of ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)
• Buccal Frenectomy: Removal of the cheek frenulum. It is done more rarely
Recovery Process After Frenectomy
The recovery process is usually quick and uneventful. The patient can return to normal activities within a few days. However, in some cases, mild discomfort may be felt.
Care and Recommendations
• Pain Management: Painkillers recommended by the doctor can be used for mild pain
• Stitches: If there are self-dissolving stitches, no intervention is needed. If the stitches need to be removed, a doctor’s check-up is important
• Oral Hygiene: A soft toothbrush should be used to avoid irritating the area. Antiseptic mouthwash may be recommended
• Diet: Hard and spicy foods should be avoided, and soft foods should be consumed
• Tongue Exercises: Exercises recommended by the doctor should be done to increase tongue movements after a lingual frenectomy
Complications
• Mild bleeding
• Infection (can be prevented with good oral hygiene)
• Rarely scarring
Advantages of Frenectomy
• Improves dental health: Eliminates dental problems such as diastema
• Corrects speech: Speech problems caused by tongue-tie are resolved
• Facilitates feeding: Feeding problems in newborns are treated
• Increases orthodontic success: Frenulum problems that hinder orthodontic treatment are resolved
• Provides aesthetic improvement: Smile aesthetics are improved
In Summary
A frenectomy is usually a short and safe procedure. Whether the procedure is necessary can be decided by a dentist, periodontist, or ENT specialist. Early intervention is important to prevent long-term problems.