A frenectomy is a minor surgical surgery in which a little tissue fold called a frenum, which links various regions of the mouth, is removed or modified. To improve the function and health of the mouth, this operation may be necessary. This comprehensive summary might help Yorba Linda, residents who are interested in learning more about frenectomy. It includes information on frenectomy provided by a dentist in Yorba Linda, CA, its kinds, indications, specifics of the treatment, and post-operative care.

What is a Frenum?

A strip of soft tissue called a frenum joins two areas of the mouth. In the oral cavity, frena mostly come in two varieties:

• Labial Frenum: Connects the inside of your upper or lower lip to the gum just above or below each respective front tooth.
• Lingual Frenum: The tissue that connects the underside of your tongue to the floor of the mouth

Types of Frenectomy

There are generally 2 types of frenectomy procedures, depending on which frenum is being treated:

• Labial Frenectomy:

The surgery is called a labiaplasty, and it releases or surgically amputates the abnormally short labial frenum. It is commonly done to solve problems such as a gap between the upper front teeth (diastema) or having dentures properly fitting.

• Lingual Frenectomy:

This is mostly a procedure to go with the name of tongue-tie release (ankyloglossia). In severe cases, a tongue-tie can impact the mobility of the tongue and interfere with speech functions as well as eating habits and oral cleaning.

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Indications for Frenectomy

There are many indications for a frenectomy, these include:

Diastema Closure:

A large or tight frenal attachment that connects the lower part of your upper lip to your gums can create a gap between the two front teeth

Improved Denture Fit:

Consequently, a large labial frenum may physically get in the way of denture retention and stability. Dentures are made more stable and comfortable by removing or altering the frenum.

Speech Impairments:

Sometimes the lingual frenum (the thing under the tongue) is tight and it affects the movement of the tongue, which in turn can affect speech. Improved tongue mobility and speech issues can be alleviated with a frenectomy.

Feeding Difficulties:

Breastfeeding: Tongue-tie can make breastfeeding difficult for newborn infants. A lingual frenectomy may increase the baby’s ability to effectively latch and feed.

Gum Recession and Discomfort:

A space between two teeth in the front or the bottom can be due to an abnormal frenum attachment pulling on your gum tissue causing it to recede and often creating discomfort. A frenectomy helps resolve those problems and could lead to greater oral health.

The Frenectomy Procedure

Frenectomy is a simple and quick procedure that can be done by one of the following dentists, oral surgeons, or periodontists. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation and Examination:

This process starts with a detailed inspection of the mouth by an oral health professional. They can check the frenum and identify a frenectomy if necessary.

Preparation:

A local anesthetic is used to numb the area surrounding his frenum so he will not feel any pain during the procedure. Sedatives can be an option for especially young children or patients with a high level of anxiety.

Procedure:

The frenectomy is performed by a dentist or surgeon using a scalpel, laser, or electrocautery device to cut the frenum off from its attachment. It is a fast-healing procedure with minimal bleeding, hence this laser technique (laser frenectomy) is the foremost choice in the current scenario.

If your child is suffering from any oral issues that are caused by improper frenum attachments, a frenectomy could be the simple and effective solution. From helping reconfigure speaking to improving denture fit and bridging gaps between teeth — a frenectomy can go far in terms of getting the most out of your oral health. To find out if this procedure can address your needs, consult with local dental professionals in Yorba Linda, CA to examine the potential benefits of a frenectomy for enhanced oral health and overall well-being today!