A tight or restrictive frenum can create problems with speaking, eating, and oral health that affect your quality of life. Whether it’s causing a gap between your front teeth, making breastfeeding difficult for infants, or limiting tongue movement, a frenectomy offers a straightforward solution. This quick procedure removes or modifies the small band of tissue connecting your lips or tongue to your gums, restoring proper function and comfort.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we perform frenectomy procedures as part of our complete periodontal care services. Our team recognizes you’re balancing work, family, and personal commitments, which is why we offer convenient appointment times from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and on Saturday mornings. We’re here to provide the care you need without disrupting your schedule.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or loosens a frenum, the thin fold of tissue in your mouth. You have several frenula, including the lingual frenum connecting your tongue to the floor of your mouth and the labial frenum connecting your upper lip to your gums above your front teeth.
The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and can be performed with a scalpel or a laser. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, and recovery is usually quick. Laser frenectomies often result in less bleeding and faster healing compared to traditional methods.
When Is a Frenectomy Necessary?
Several conditions may indicate you or your child could benefit from a frenectomy. A restricted lingual frenum, commonly called tongue tie, can affect speech development and make certain sounds difficult to pronounce. Infants with tongue tie may struggle with breastfeeding, while older children and adults might experience challenges eating certain foods or maintaining proper oral hygiene.
A tight labial frenum can create a noticeable gap between your front teeth or contribute to gum recession. When the frenum pulls on the gum tissue, it can cause the gums to recede from the teeth, potentially leading to sensitivity and increased risk of periodontal problems. Addressing these issues early often prevents more complex dental work later.
Signs You May Need a Frenectomy
You might benefit from a frenectomy if you notice difficulty moving your tongue from side to side or touching the roof of your mouth. Speech impediments, particularly with sounds like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r,” can indicate a restricted frenum. Parents may notice their child has trouble keeping up with peers during meals or struggles with certain words.
Physical signs include a visible gap between your upper front teeth or gum tissue that appears to pull away from your teeth. Some people experience discomfort when trying to stick their tongue out fully or notice their tongue forms a heart shape when extended. If you’ve had orthodontic treatment but your teeth are shifting back to their original positions, a tight frenum may be preventing lasting results.
The Frenectomy Procedure at Dental Group of Chicago
Your dentist will begin by applying a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Once you’re comfortable, the frenum is carefully removed or modified. Laser frenectomies use concentrated light energy to precisely cut tissue, thereby sealing blood vessels and minimizing bleeding. Traditional surgical methods use a scalpel and may require a few small stitches.
The entire procedure usually takes less than half an hour. You can return to most normal activities the same day, though we recommend avoiding certain foods and activities for a few days while you heal. Most patients find they can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Recovery and Aftercare
Healing after a frenectomy typically takes about one to two weeks. You may notice mild swelling and tenderness in the treatment area for the first few days. Sticking to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup makes eating more comfortable during this time. Cold foods and ice packs can help reduce swelling.
Keeping the area clean is vital for proper healing. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, especially after meals. Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for the first few days, but continue your regular oral hygiene routine elsewhere. We may recommend specific exercises to stretch the healing tissue and prevent it from reattaching in a restrictive way.
Most people return to work or school the next day, though children who undergo the procedure may benefit from a day of rest at home. Contact us immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection like fever or pus.
Benefits of Frenectomy Beyond Function
A frenectomy can improve more than just physical function. Children who undergo the procedure often show improved confidence as their speech becomes clearer and eating becomes easier. Adults frequently report improved oral hygiene because they can finally clean all tooth surfaces properly without tissue getting in the way.
For patients with gaps between their front teeth, removing a restrictive labial frenum allows orthodontic treatment to work more effectively. The teeth can move into their proper positions and stay there without the frenum pulling them apart. This may shorten your overall treatment time and help your results last longer.
Frenectomy for All Ages
While many people associate frenectomies with children, adults can also benefit from the procedure. You’re never too old to address issues caused by a restrictive frenum. Adult patients often seek frenectomy when they experience gum recession, pursue orthodontic treatment, or simply want to improve their speech and eating.
For infants experiencing feeding difficulties, an early frenectomy can make a significant difference in their ability to nurse successfully. Addressing the issue quickly helps both baby and parent establish a comfortable feeding routine. Pediatric patients undergoing speech therapy may see faster progress after a frenectomy removes the physical barrier limiting tongue movement.
Schedule Your Frenectomy Consultation at Dental Group of Chicago
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a restrictive frenum or have concerns about its potential impact on your oral health, our team at Dental Group of Chicago can evaluate your situation and recommend the best treatment plan. We understand dental issues don’t follow a convenient schedule, which is why we maintain extended hours to accommodate busy schedules. Our comprehensive dental services include both preventive care and procedures like frenectomies that address specific concerns.
We accept a wide variety of insurance plans, including Delta Dental, MetLife, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield, Guardian, and United Healthcare. Our team will file your claim for you to help maximize your benefits. Ready to learn more about how a frenectomy could benefit you or your child? Contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists, and let us help you achieve optimal oral health and function.
