What Is a Frenectomy, and When is it Necessary?

When it comes to dental health, many factors play a key role. Among these, the term 'frenectomy' may not be familiar to everyone. A frenectomy is a straightforward and common procedure in the field of dental care. In essence, a frenectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to remove or adjust the frenum in the mouth. The frenum is a small fold of tissue that prevents an organ in the body from moving too far. It can be found in several places in the human body, including the mouth.
 

The Anatomy Behind a Frenectomy

The two main types of frenum in the mouth that are associated with a frenectomy are the labial and lingual frenum. The labial frenum can sometimes cause a gap to form between the two upper front teeth, which can lead to dental health issues or aesthetic concerns.
 

The lingual frenum plays a significant role in our ability to speak and eat. If this frenum is too short or tight - a condition known as ankyloglossia or "tongue-tie" - it can restrict the movement of the tongue and cause difficulties with speech, eating, and, in some cases, breathing.
 

Different Types of Frenectomy

There are primarily two types of frenectomy, each corresponding to the frenum it involves: the labial frenectomy and the lingual frenectomy. A labial frenectomy is performed when the labial frenum is causing a gap between the two front teeth or causing denture instability. This procedure can be done on both adults and children and can significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile and the fit of dentures.
 

A lingual frenectomy, also known as the treatment for tongue-tie, is performed when the lingual frenum is restricting the movement of the tongue. This procedure can drastically improve a person's ability to speak and eat and is commonly performed on infants who are having difficulty breastfeeding due to their tongue tie.
 

Both types of frenectomy are relatively straightforward and quick procedures, usually taking no more than 15 minutes. They can be performed with local anesthesia and typically involve minimal discomfort.
 

When is a Frenectomy Necessary?

A frenectomy becomes necessary when the frenum is causing complications or discomfort. For instance, a labial frenectomy might be necessary if the labial frenum is causing a gap between the two front teeth, leading to aesthetic concerns or issues with denture stability. On the other hand, a lingual frenectomy may be necessary if the person has a tongue-tie that is causing difficulties with speech, eating, or breathing.

In children, a frenectomy might be necessary if the child has a tongue-tie that is causing problems with breastfeeding. In such a case, a pediatric frenectomy can be an effective solution that can lead to significant improvements in the child's ability to feed.
 

The necessity of a frenectomy comes down to whether the frenum is causing complications that affect the person's quality of life or dental health.

The Role of Dentists in Frenectomy

Dentists play a critical role in the process of a frenectomy. From the initial consultation to the actual procedure and the follow-up care, a dental professional is instrumental in ensuring the process goes smoothly and successfully.
 

Dental practitioners are responsible for diagnosing the need for a frenectomy, performing the procedure, and providing aftercare. They also play a crucial role in educating patients about the procedure and the care needed afterward.
 

Ensuring Optimal Dental Health

A frenectomy is a simple and quick procedure that can have a significant impact on a person's dental health and overall quality of life. Whether it's a labial frenectomy to improve the appearance of the smile or a lingual frenectomy to improve speech and eating abilities, this procedure can be a crucial part of ensuring optimal dental health.
 

For more information on a frenectomy and when it is necessary, consult with John K. See, DDS, in Camarillo, California. Please call 805-920-8600 to schedule an appointment today.