A frenectomy is a common minor surgical procedure performed in pediatric dentistry, and at Berkshire Pediatric Dentistry, we perform them using a soft tissue dental laser. For most patients, this means a quicker procedure, a more comfortable experience, and a faster recovery than traditional surgical methods.
What is a Frenum?
A frenum is a small band of connective tissue that attaches two different soft tissue structures in the mouth. They are a normal piece of our anatomy, but when a frenum is abnormally short, thick, or tight, it can limit or prevent ideal function. A frenectomy is the procedure used to release the restriction.
Frenum Management Takes a Team
Our office does not view surgical intervention as the only option, although it is often an appropriate one. We work closely with other healthcare providers including lactation consultants, pediatricians, myofunctional therapists, speech therapists, and orthodontists to ensure a comprehensive and tailored management to your individual needs.
We most commonly perform two types of frenectomies:
Labial Frenectomy (Lip Tie Release)
The labial frenums connect the upper and lower lip to the gum tissue. In infancy, a restrictive lip tie can create an inadequate seal by the lips while nursing which can contribute to an increased experience of reflux, colic, and gassiness. Later in development, labial frenums can cause gaps between the front teeth, gum recession, or interfere with the fit of orthodontic appliances.
Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue Tie Release)
The lingual frenum is a part of the connection between the base of the tongue and floor of the mouth. A restrictive lingual frenum can prevent free movement of the tongue. In infancy, this can lead to painful or nutritionally inadequate breast feeding, and increased difficulty nursing. In school-age children, tongue ties can contribute to speech challenges and can influence less ideal airway development.
Why We Use a Laser
When compared to traditional scalpel-based techniques, use of lasers offer numerous benefits. These include less sensation of pain during the procedure, faster working time, minimal post-operative bleeding (as the laser “seals” the tissue as it goes,) shorter healing period, and less effect to surrounding tissues.