Frenectomy Dentist in New York

What Is a Frenum?

Frenums, also called frenulums, are the flexible connective tissue located within your oral cavity. There are two basic types — lingual and labial frenums.

Lingual Frenum

The lingual frenum exists between the floor of your mouth and the underside of your tongue. Although this frenum comes in all different sizes, sometimes it can restrict the tongue’s movement — a condition commonly called a tongue tie. Being tongue-tied can impact speech, tongue movement and even swallowing. A frenectomy can be performed by a 209 NYC Dental specialist to free the tongue.

Labial Frenum

Along the upper arch of your mouth is the labial frenum, which connects your gum to your lips. If this frenulum is abnormally long or wide, it may extend through the gum tissue between your teeth and connect to the front portion of your mouth’s roof. When this upper frenum is too long or thick, it can create an irregular space between the two front teeth or inhibit the movement of your upper lip.

While a frenectomy can address the lip tie, our multispecialty team can also provide you with a solution to correct the space between your teeth.

What Is a Frenectomy Dental Procedure?

In the simplest terms, a frenectomy involves the removal or shortening of one of the frenums within your mouth. The goal is to correct the malfunction and anomalies to restore normal function. Your dentist may recommend a frenectomy if the lingual or labial frenum is causing pain or hindering proper oral function.

The benefits of a frenectomy depend on the frenum’s location and why you may need treatment. Lingual frenectomies are most common in children. They can restore proper tongue function while making eating, swallowing and talking easier. Labial frenectomies can reduce the frenum’s size or thickness to ensure a gap correction does not reopen.

The Frenectomy Process

Although a frenectomy is considered an oral surgical procedure, it is fairly straightforward. Most frenectomies take about 15 minutes from start to finish and follow these general steps:

• To prepare for this outpatient procedure at 209 NYC Dental, you will be gently secured lying face up.
• Your dentist will apply an anesthetic to numb the area so you feel no discomfort.
• The frenum is quickly and efficiently snipped and corrected using a surgical instrument.
• If your frenum anomaly is more severe, closing the incision may require several stitches.
• Within a couple of days, the site will begin healing. After a week, the area should scar over, and most patients can resume normal activities.

Find Out If a Frenectomy Is Right for You at 209 NYC Dental

If you struggle with a lip tie or you or a family member are tongue-tied, you can receive a frenectomy at any age to improve your overall oral health. Schedule your free consultation at 209 NYC Dental to learn more about the frenectomy procedure and see if you qualify for this treatment. We cannot wait to help you achieve a lifetime of smiles, so contact us today.