Frenectomy
Many general and family dentists advertise frenectomy surgery as breastfeeding consultation or tongue-tie treatment. Unfortunately, frenectomies are often conducted unnecessarily or at the wrong time in a young child’s development.
Despite this, the rate of surgical intervention has increased exponentially over the last 20 years.
Our pediatric dentists at Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry follow an evidence-based approach to the treatment of frenula and pediatric surgery. If you are considering a frenectomy to address tongue-tie and lip-tie conditions, give us a call at 888.339.8108 or contact us online to learn more about our informed pediatric approach.
Our Frenectomy Policy
Many general and family dentists advertise services like breastfeeding consultation, infant feeding management, and tongue-tie treatment. All of these offerings are typically an alternative name for a surgical intervention called a frenectomy.
While frenectomies are not innately harmful, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has expressed concern about the exponential increase of these surgeries over the last two decades.
The AAPD advocates for an evidence-based approach to the treatment of frenula and has stated that making information more accessible to both parents and allied healthcare professionals would ultimately, “Help reduce the number of unnecessary or incorrectly timed procedures.”
Pediatric dentists like Dr. Chuck, Dr. Nash, and Dr. Clifton are therefor less liberal with surgical frenectomy treatments than many general or family dentistries.
What Is a Frenectomy?
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the lingual frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is too short or tight. This can lead to difficulty moving the tongue and affecting functions such as breastfeeding or swallowing. In severe cases, it can even cause speech impediments. Tongue-tie surgery, also known as a lingual frenotomy, involves cutting the frenulum to release the tension and allow for better movement of the tongue. This surgery is typically performed on infants or young children but can also be done on adults who continue to experience issues due to an untreated tongue-tie.
Lip-tie is similar to tongue-tie but instead involves the labial frenulum (the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums). When this tissue is too tight, it can cause difficulty with breastfeeding, speech, and oral hygiene. Lip-tie surgery, also known as a maxillary frenectomy, involves cutting or releasing the labial frenulum to improve function and prevent potential issues in the future. This procedure is often performed on infants or young children but can also be done on adults.
Frenectomy surgery refers to both tongue-tie and lip-tie surgeries. In general, frenectomy is a term used to describe any surgical removal or alteration of the frenulum. Depending on the individual case and desired outcome, it may involve cutting, releasing, or reshaping the tissue. Frenectomy surgery can have many benefits, including improved feeding, speech, and oral hygiene.
Terms to Know
- Frenectomy – describes any surgical removal or alteration of frenula
- Frenulum – (plural- frenula) a connective membrane between two parts of the body, one of which is typically mobile
- Lingual Frenulum – the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth
- Labial Frenulum – the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums
If you are considering a frenectomy for your child, you should schedule a time to consult one of our pediatric dentists today.
The Benefits of Frenectomy Surgery
- Improved speech – For individuals with a tight or overgrown frenulum, speaking can be difficult and may lead to speech impediments such as lisping or stuttering. Frenectomy surgery can help improve tongue mobility and allow for proper pronunciation of words.
- Easier eating and swallowing – An overly tight frenulum can also affect the ability to chew and swallow food properly. Frenectomy surgery can help relieve this issue, making eating a more enjoyable experience.
- Improved oral hygiene – A tight frenulum can make it difficult to properly clean around the teeth and gums, leading to plaque buildup and an increased risk of gum disease. Frenectomy surgery can help improve oral hygiene and decrease the likelihood of dental issues.
- Reduced risk of gaps in teeth – In some cases, an abnormal frenulum can cause a gap between the front teeth. By removing the frenulum, this gap may close over time, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved breastfeeding – A tight frenulum can make it difficult for infants to latch onto the mother's breast while breastfeeding. A frenectomy can help improve the baby's ability to nurse and may also reduce discomfort for the mother.
- Quicker recovery time – Frenectomy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that usually takes less than 15 minutes to complete. This means a quicker recovery time compared to other dental surgeries, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities sooner.
- Minimal pain and discomfort – With the use of local anesthesia, frenectomy surgery is relatively pain-free. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
- Long-term results – Frenectomy surgery offers long-lasting results, with most patients not needing a second surgery in the future.
Contact Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry for Frenectomy Advice and Appointments
We understand the importance of informed decision-making, especially when it comes to your young child’s health. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch pediatric dental care and orthodontic care for patients of all ages. We specialize in a wide range of treatments, including pediatric surgeries. Call 888.339.8108 or connect with us online to learn more.