Benefits Of Frenectomy

A Frenectomy is an oral procedure where a frenum in the mouth is removed with a laser. A frenum is an attachment between two tissues in the mouth – on the gums, cheeks, and lips. The two types of frenum in the mouth are known as the lingual frenum and the labial frenum.

What Are Frenum?

Labial Frenum – A labial frenum is tissue that connects the center of the upper gums (between the two front teeth) to the upper lip. If this frenum goes down too low on the gum tissue, it can cause a large gap between the two front teeth. In addition, if it’s too tight it can also cause gum recession by pulling the gums off the jawbone. A labial frenectomy is usually taken care of after the eruption of the two front permanent teeth. This is because a labial frenum sometimes takes care of itself during the growth of these teeth. However, if the labial frenum is causing pain or discomfort to younger children, a frenectomy will be performed before the permanent teeth come in.

Lingual Frenum – This kind of frenum is muscle tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If the lingual frenum connects to far forward on the tongue, it can restrict tongue movement. This condition is more commonly known as being ‘tongue tied.’ This frenum doesn’t usually cause too many problems, but if it restricts a child’s ability to speak and eat then a lingual frenectomy will be performed. If there are going to be any issues, they’re usually discovered early on as tongue-tied infants have a very difficult time latching onto a breast during breastfeeding.

Benefits Of A Frenectomy

Labial frenectomy:

• Helps reduce pain and discomfort
• Eliminates tooth gap between the two front teeth
• Improves bite function
• Promotes self-confidence in young adults and teens

Lingual frenectomy:

• Improves speech function
• Improves eating and appetite

For more information regarding frenectomies or any other dental issues your child may be having, please contact Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics! We are located in Firestone, CO.