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A frenectomy is used to treat a condition known as “tongue tie,” which is when the frenum tissue, which attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is enlarged or fused with the skin on the inside of the lower lip. The condition usually occurs at birth, but it may also occur later in life if there has been an injury to the area. Tongue ties are most common in children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old.
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess frenulum tissue from the gum line. It allows for easier breathing, speaking, chewing, and eating. A frenectomy is a quick and simple procedure that only takes about 30 minutes
Pediatric dentists and oral surgeons are trained to perform frenectomies on infants and toddlers.
A child’s pediatrician may notice if a baby has a tongue tie, but the biggest indicator is if the newborn has trouble breastfeeding. Other signs of tongue tie in babies may include:
Dentists can also perform adult frenectomies to correct issues related to excessive growth of the frenulum.
An adult may need a frenectomy if the following symptoms are present:
There are different types of frenectomy procedures, depending on the patient’s needs:
The labial frenulum is located between the center of the upper lip and is attached to the gums just below the center front teeth. If the tissue is too short or too thick, this is referred to as a “lip tie.” If it is not corrected, the labial frenum can pull the gums away from the teeth, causing gum recession.
During a labial frenectomy procedure, the dentist removes the excess band of tissue from the bottom of the lips to allow for better breathing and speech. A labial frenectomy removes only the portion of the frenum that extends into the lips.
The Lingual frenum is located between the center of the lower lip and is attached to the gums below the center of the bottom row of teeth. If the tissue here is too tight, it causes a tongue tie, which can cause issues with breastfeeding, speaking, or eating.
To perform a lingual frenectomy, a small incision is made on the lingual frenulum to free up the tongue. Once the incision is made, the dentist will remove any excess tissue and close the wound using sutures.
A maxillary frenectomy is a more extensive procedure that requires general anesthesia. For a maxillary frenectomy, an incision is made through the gums and then down to the bone so the dentist can remove the excess tissue.
This procedure is commonly done to correct airway obstruction caused by an overgrowth of the frenum. This may include conditions such as cleft palate or adenoid hypertrophy.
At Shoreline Dental Care, we provide comprehensive dental procedures in a safe and comfortable environment. Our team of friendly and professional dentists are here to help you get the treatment you need for great oral health.
If you think you or your child may need a frenectomy in Connecticut, contact the doctors at Shoreline Dental Care today!
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