What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy surgically repositions the frenum in the mouth. A frenum is a fold of tissue or muscle attachment that passes from the movable lip or cheek to the gum tissue. There are multiple frenums within the mouth, the most prominent being the ones in the front of the upper and lower teeth. The lingual frenum (under the tongue) is the muscular attachment connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, while the labial (lip) frenum attaches the lip to the gum on both the upper and lower arches in the mouth. When a frenum causes oral function (speech) issues or recession, a frenectomy is needed. This is a simple procedure in which the area is numbed with local anesthesia and a small incision is made to remove or reduce the frenum. When a frenum is positioned in such a way as to interfere with the normal alignment of teeth or results in pulling away of the gum from the tooth surface causing recession, they require repositioning with a simple, single surgical procedure.
What are the benefits of a Frenectomy?
Frenectomies are simple procedures that when performed help promote long term health of the gums and teeth. They can also prevent orthodontic tooth relapse following orthodontic treatment.
