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What is a Frenectomy?
It's possible for a frenum in the mouth to be too tight or short. This can restrict movement in the mouth. A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure to remove the frenum.
At Peterborough Dental Clinic, babies and children are the most common candidates for frenectomies.
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Types of Frenums
The small piece of tissue that joins your tongue, cheeks, or lips to your gum area is called a frenum. Babies can be born with a restriction of any of these frenums.
- Lingual Frenum (Tongue Tie)
The tissue that connects the bottom of the mouth to the tongue is a lingual frenum. When the mouth's movement is restricted due to this frenum, it's called a tongue tie.
- Labial Frenum (Lip Tie)
The tissue that joins the bottom of your upper and lower gums is a labial frenum. When the mouth's movement is restricted because of this frenum, it's called a lip tie.
- Buccal Frenum (Cheek Tie)
The tissue which joins the inside of the cheeks to the gums is a buccal frenum. When the mouth's movement is restricted due to this frenum, it's called a cheek tie.
The Procedure
This safe procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The area heals quickly and typically, you would not require any anesthesia. During a frenectomy, your dentist simply cuts the frenum to free the lip, cheek, or tongue.
Because there are few nerves in the very narrow frenum, patients usually experience very little pain with this procedure.
Follow proper aftercare procedures, including avoiding moving your tongue unnecessarily and keeping the area clean.