Frenums and the Frenectomy Procedure
Most people have two bands of tissue (known as frenums) in their mouth. The first frenum, known as the labial frenum, is located in the upper jaw and connects the lip and front teeth. The second frenum, called the lingual frenum, connects the underside of the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. Patients with abnormalities to either frenum, may experience oral function impairments that a frenectomy dallas fort worth may help alleviate.
Labial Frenum and Frenectomy Procedure
Located in the upper arch, the labial frenum is the connective tissue between the lip and gum. When abnormally long or wide, the labial frenum may extend to the front section of the roof of the mouth connecting the gum tissue between the teeth. This can create a space or gap (known as a diastema) between the front teeth which could require corrective procedures performed by a specialist, general dentist or oral surgeon. An enlarged labial frenum can also create difficulties with speaking, eating, bite function, and cosmetic aesthetics (appearance).
Generally performed at an out-patient surgical facility, dentist office, or hospital, a labial frenectomy can help correct the issues associated with an abnormal labial frenum. The procedure is performed using either a scalpel, lasers, or electrocautery device to cut away the abnormal tissue. When scalpels are used for the procedure, the patient is given a local anesthetic to minimize pain after which, sutures are used to close the wound to help reduce bleeding and aid in the healing process. With lasers or electrocautery devices, neither anesthesia or sutures are required as there is no pain or bleeding involved. Depending on the method the doctor uses, most labial frenectomies are completed in 30-60 minutes.
Lingual Frenum and Frenectomy Procedure
The lingual frenum is located in the lower arch and connects the bottom of the mouth to the underside of the tongue. Since the tongue is heavily involved in the processes of speech and swallowing, abnormalities in the lingual frenum (known as ankyloglossia or “tongue-tie”) can create issues for patients with the condition. Infants, in particular, can have difficulty breastfeeding if they have an abnormal lingual frenum which makes gaining or keeping weight problematic.
The techniques used for a lingual frenectomy are typically the same as those for a labial frenectomy. Scalpels, lasers, or electrocautery devices are all methods that can be used to cut the tissue under the tongue. When performed in newborns, scissors are often used to clip the abnormal tissue. Because there are few nerves in this tissue, the procedure is generally painless and infants are able to resume normal breastfeeding immediately after completion
Frenectomy Aftercare Treatment
Both procedures can be performed on patients of any age and are generally well tolerated with minimal post-operative pain, swelling, or bleeding. Many patients will barely notice the effects of the procedure and can resume normal activities. Any pain or swelling can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen but should the discomfort extend beyond a day or two, patients may need to consult their dentist to rule out any complications or infections.
More on Frenectomy : Infant Frenectomy
