Frenectomy (Lingual/Labial)

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenum is a small band of connective tissue in the mouth that helps control the movement of the lips or tongue. Sometimes this tissue is too tight, short, or thick—restricting natural motion or causing other oral problems.

A frenectomy is a quick, minor surgical procedure that removes or loosens this tissue. It’s commonly performed on infants, children, or adults to improve speech, feeding, oral comfort, or orthodontic outcomes.

Types of Frenectomy

At Cornerstone Dental Arts, we perform two main types of frenectomies:

1. Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue-Tie Release)

   • Performed under the tongue to release a tight lingual frenum (tongue-tie).

   • Helps improve tongue mobility for clearer speech, easier eating, and proper oral development.

   • Especially beneficial for infants struggling with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, as well as adults with speech difficulties or tension in the jaw and neck.

2. Labial Frenectomy (Lip-Tie Release)

   • Performed between the upper lip and the gums to correct a tight or thick frenum (lip-tie).

   • Can reduce spacing (diastema) between the upper front teeth, improve comfort for denture or orthodontic wear, and enhance smile aesthetics.

   • Often completed before or after orthodontic treatment to stabilize results.

Why a Frenectomy May Be Recommended

A frenectomy may be suggested if you or your child experience:

• Difficulty nursing, eating, or swallowing

• Speech or pronunciation issues

• Gum recession near the upper or lower front teeth

• Gaps between the front teeth

• Tension or restricted movement of the tongue or lips

• Orthodontic relapse caused by tissue pulling

Frenectomies are simple procedures with long-lasting benefits for oral health, comfort, and appearance.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Evaluation: Your dentist or specialist examines the frenum and surrounding tissues to determine whether a frenectomy is needed.

2. Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed for comfort. In young children, sedation or laser options may also be available.

3. Tissue Release: The tight frenum is gently trimmed or removed with a scalpel or laser.

4. Quick Healing: The area is typically closed with a few dissolvable sutures or left to heal naturally.

Most procedures take just a few minutes and result in minimal discomfort. Patients can usually eat soft foods the same day.

Healing and Aftercare

• Mild tenderness and swelling are normal for a few days.

• Follow post-op instructions for gentle stretching (especially after tongue-tie release).

• Avoid spicy or crunchy foods for several days.

• Rinse gently with salt water or a prescribed mouth rinse to aid healing.

• Most patients heal completely within one to two weeks.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

• Improved tongue and lip mobility

• Easier speech, eating, and oral hygiene

• Better breastfeeding success for infants

• Reduced spacing or gum strain

• More comfort with dentures or orthodontic appliances

• Enhanced overall oral function and confidence

FAQs About Frenectomy

Q: Is a frenectomy painful?
A: The procedure is quick and performed under local anesthesia. Most patients report little to no discomfort, and healing is fast.

Q: Can babies really benefit from a frenectomy?
A: Yes. For infants with tongue- or lip-ties, a frenectomy can dramatically improve feeding, reduce colic, and support proper oral development.

Q: Will a frenectomy leave a scar?
A: Healing is typically smooth, and any tissue changes are minimal and unnoticeable once healed.

Q: How soon will I notice results?
A: Many patients—especially children—notice improved movement or comfort immediately after the procedure.

Q: Is laser frenectomy available?
A: In some cases, yes. Laser frenectomy can reduce bleeding and speed healing, making it a gentle option for patients of all ages.