Frenectomy (Tongue Ties and Diastemas)

A frenulum is the small band of tissue that connects your upper lip to the gums, and another that links the lower lip to the gums. If these frenula are overly short or thick, they can lead to speech difficulties and tooth misalignment. In infants, a shortened frenulum beneath the tongue, or occasionally the lip, can hinder effective breastfeeding. The term "tongue-tied" is often used to describe this condition, which restricts tongue movement. Fortunately, this can be corrected using a soft tissue laser, restoring proper function.

 

Frenula can also contribute to gum recession on specific teeth. In some cases, they may create diastemas, or gaps, between teeth—most commonly between the upper front teeth—by attaching too close to the teeth, causing them to drift apart. If a significant frenulum attachment is not addressed, treatments like orthodontics or crowns may not hold, leading to the reformation of the gap.

 

When a frenulum interferes with movement or development, intervention is crucial. Significant restrictions can affect speech clarity, and combining a frenectomy with speech therapy can be beneficial. Additionally, tongue ties may restrict airflow in children and contribute to sleep apnea as they grow into adulthood.

 

A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that can be performed with either a scalpel or laser. At our office, we prefer using a soft tissue laser, as it minimizes trauma to the surrounding tissue. This method results in minimal bleeding and does not require stitches, leading to less postoperative discomfort and a quicker healing process. Infants often don't need anesthesia for the procedure, while local anesthesia is typically used for older children and adults. If your child requires a frenectomy, you can rest assured that the procedure is safe and effective.