Frenectomy
If it is too large, the attachment between lips and gums or beneath the tongue, known as the frenum, can cause gapped teeth or tongue-tie. During a frenectomy, a doctor can clip this tissue to ease discomfort and even improve speech for children or adults.
Why is a frenectomy the solution for me?
Reduce oral discomfort: Clipping the frenum that connects your upper or lower lip to the gums can relieve excess pressure and pain.
Realign your bite: By reducing the dense connective tissue fibers, your doctor can realign your front teeth for a stronger, straighter smile.
Enhance your speech and appetite: Cutting the frenum beneath the tongue can improve both communication and the ability to eat, as well as allow for the normal expanding growth of the palate.
What is involved in a frenectomy?
From start to finish, a frenectomy rarely takes longer than a few minutes. The doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to the frenum and surrounding tissue to numb the area. The frenum will be gently clipped or removed with scissors, a scalpel, or a laser. If necessary, the doctor will then close the incision with dissolvable sutures.
The prospect of surgery can make any person nervous, especially if your child is the patient. However, a frenectomy is a relatively simple and short procedure. In fact, most patients only need a topical anesthetic to stay comfortable during their appointment.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the earlier in life the surgery is done, the simpler it is. Early intervention can even reduce the risk of the frenum affecting the growth of the jaw and dental development.
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