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Frenectomies in Columbus
Improving Comfort, Function, and Oral Health
At Implant & Oral Surgery of Columbus, Frenectomy procedures are performed to improve oral function, comfort, and long-term oral health when a small fold of tissue in the mouth restricts normal movement. For some patients, a tight or improperly positioned frenum can interfere with speech development, eating, orthodontic stability, or denture fit.
A frenum is a small band of connective tissue that attaches the lips or tongue to the surrounding oral tissues. When this tissue is too tight, thick, or positioned incorrectly, it can limit range of motion and contribute to various oral health issues. A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that releases or removes this tissue to restore more natural movement and function.
Why Frenectomy Matters
Although a frenum is a normal structure, problems arise when it interferes with daily function or oral development. Restrictions involving the upper lip, lower lip, or tongue can affect chewing, speech, oral hygiene, and comfort.
In children, a tight lingual frenulum may contribute to tongue tie, which can affect feeding, speech development, and tongue movement. In adults, an untreated frenum can cause gum recession, interfere with dental prosthetics, or create ongoing irritation.
By addressing these issues early, frenectomy procedures help improve quality of life and support long-term oral health.
Understanding the Frenulum and Its Role
The mouth contains several frenula located in different areas of the oral cavity. These include the labial frenulum, which connects the upper or lower lip to the gums, and the lingual frenulum, which connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
When these structures are too restrictive, they can limit the movement of the tongue or lips. This restriction may place stress on gum tissue, pull the front teeth apart, or interfere with speech clarity and proper oral hygiene.
A thorough examination helps determine whether a frenulum is contributing to symptoms and whether treatment may be beneficial.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
There are several types of frenectomy procedures, each designed to address a specific area of concern within the mouth. The type of frenectomy recommended depends on the location of the tight frenulum and the symptoms present.
Common types include:
- Lingual frenectomy, used to release tongue tie and improve tongue movement.
- Labial frenectomy, which addresses a tight frenum between the upper front teeth or lower lip.
- Maxillary frenectomy, often recommended to support orthodontic stability or denture fit.
- Buccal frenum release, performed when side attachments interfere with oral function.
Each procedure is carefully planned to address the specific needs of the patient.
How Frenectomy Helps Improve Function
A frenectomy can make a world of difference for patients experiencing functional limitations. Releasing tight soft tissue allows for improved range of motion and more natural movement of the tongue or lips.
This improved mobility may support clearer speech, more effective chewing, better oral hygiene practices, and reduced strain on gum tissue. In orthodontic cases, releasing a labial frenum may help prevent spacing from reopening between the upper front teeth after treatment.
For denture wearers, a frenectomy can improve stability and comfort by allowing the prosthesis to sit more securely.
When Is a Frenectomy Recommended?
A frenectomy may be recommended when a tight frenulum contributes to symptoms that affect oral health or daily life. These recommendations are based on a thorough evaluation and collaboration with other dental professionals when needed.
Situations that may prompt evaluation include speech difficulties, feeding concerns, gum recession, orthodontic relapse, or discomfort caused by limited tongue or lip movement. In infants, a lactation consultant or pediatric dentist may identify feeding challenges related to tongue tie.
Older children and adults may notice difficulty speaking clearly, limited tongue mobility, or tension affecting the lower lip or floor of your mouth.
What Happens During a Frenectomy Procedure?
Before treatment, a thorough examination is performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate approach. The oral surgeon reviews the areas of the mouth involved and explains the benefits of frenectomy for the patient’s specific concerns.
During the procedure, local anesthesia or local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area. In some cases, general anesthesia may be discussed, though this is rarely necessary for this minor surgical procedure.
Once the frenulum is released, the area is evaluated to ensure improved movement and proper healing conditions.
What Is Recovery Like After Frenectomy?
Recovery from a frenectomy is typically straightforward. Most patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness for a short period following the procedure.
Soft foods are recommended initially, and ice packs may be used to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter counter pain relievers are often sufficient to manage discomfort.
Patients are usually able to return to normal activities quickly, though strenuous activities may be limited briefly. Maintaining proper oral hygiene during healing is important to reduce the risk of infection.
How Frenectomy Supports Speech and Development
For some patients, especially children, frenectomy plays an important role in speech development. A restricted lingual frenum can limit tongue movement needed for clear pronunciation.
In these cases, frenectomy may be part of a broader treatment plan that includes speech therapy. Releasing the tight tissue allows the tongue greater freedom of movement, which can support improved articulation over time.
Speech therapy is often recommended after healing to help retrain tongue movement and maximize benefits.
Frenectomy and Orthodontic or Dental Care
Frenectomy procedures are sometimes recommended in coordination with orthodontic treatment. A tight labial frenum can contribute to spacing between the upper front teeth or cause orthodontic relapse after braces.
In adults who wear dentures, releasing a labial frenum may improve the fit and stability of a complete denture.
Addressing these concerns helps support long-term dental success and patient comfort.
Coordination between the oral surgeon, orthodontist, general dentist, or pediatric dentist ensures the best course of action.
A Thoughtful Approach to Frenectomy at Implant & Oral Surgery of Columbus
At Implant & Oral Surgery of Columbus, frenectomy procedures are performed with great care, precision, and attention to patient comfort. Dr. Chintan Patel evaluates each case individually to determine whether treatment is appropriate and which technique will provide the greatest benefit.
Clear communication, gentle technique, and supportive follow-up help patients feel confident throughout their care.
How Does Frenectomy Improve Quality of Life?
By improving movement, comfort, and oral health, frenectomy can positively affect daily activities such as eating, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene. Addressing a tight frenulum helps reduce irritation, supports dental stability, and improves overall comfort.
For many patients, this small procedure leads to meaningful, lasting improvements.
Schedule a Frenectomy Consultation
If you or your child may benefit from a frenectomy, the team at Implant & Oral Surgery of Columbus is here to help. A careful evaluation can determine whether treatment is appropriate and what approach best supports your oral health goals.
Contact Implant & Oral Surgery of Columbus today to schedule a consultation and learn how frenectomy treatment can improve comfort, function, and long-term oral health.
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