What is a frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a simple oral surgical procedure in which a dentist or doctor cuts the frenum, a band of connective tissue, to release or loosen the tissue causing restriction in the lip or tongue. This procedure is quick, safe, and highly effective, with minimal aftercare required. It is often recommended for infants and children who have tongue or lip ties, as it helps improve the comfort and ease of feeding, especially for nursing mothers and babies. A frenectomy can make a big difference in enhancing your child’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe comfortably.

How it works: The frenectomy procedure

Consultation

The first step is a consultation to determine if your child needs a frenectomy. During this visit, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns with the dentist, and your child will undergo an oral exam. The dentist will carefully examine their mouth for signs of tongue or lip ties and evaluate whether a frenectomy is the most appropriate treatment.

Local Anesthesia

To start the procedure, the area will be numbed with local anesthesia, ensuring that your child feels no pain or discomfort during the surgery.

Snip of the Frenulum

There are several tools available to snip the frenulum, including lasers or scissors. During the consultation, your doctor will discuss the best option for your child. Regardless of the method used, the procedure is quick, with the frenulum being snipped in just a few seconds. Using a laser helps minimize bleeding and discomfort, while also promoting faster healing.

Aftercare

A laser frenectomy eliminates the need for stitches or sutures. After the procedure, proper care involves cleaning the treatment area at least twice a day. Your child’s dentist may also recommend tongue or lip stretches to ensure the frenulum heals correctly and does not reattach.

Treating Tongue Ties in Children

A lingual frenectomy is a procedure used to treat tongue ties, or "ankyloglossia," which occur when the lingual frenulum (the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is overdeveloped. This restriction can limit your child’s tongue movement, causing difficulties with breastfeeding, chewing, and speech. During a lingual frenectomy, the frenulum is carefully snipped, allowing the tongue to move freely and improving overall oral function.

Treating Lip Ties in Children

A maxillary frenectomy is performed to address lip ties, which occur when the frenulum between the upper gums and upper lip becomes overdeveloped. This can restrict lip movement and may lead to conditions such as diastema (a gap between the front teeth). During the procedure, the frenulum is snipped to restore proper lip movement and improve your child’s oral health.