Oral Frenectomy

An oral frenectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure performed to correct a condition where a frenum – a small fold of tissue that connects two parts of the mouth – is too short, thick, or tight, restricting movement. In children, the most common types are a lingual frenectomy (for "tongue-tie") and a labial frenectomy (for "lip-tie"). A tongue-tie occurs when the lingual frenum tethers the tongue too tightly to the floor of the mouth, impacting a baby's ability to latch during breastfeeding, and potentially affecting speech development or eating habits as they grow.

A lip-tie, involving the labial frenum behind the upper lip, can also interfere with breastfeeding and sometimes contribute to a gap between the front teeth. The frenectomy procedure itself is quick and precise, often performed with a dental laser for minimal bleeding, reduced discomfort, and faster healing. It involves carefully releasing the restrictive tissue to allow for a full range of motion. For infants, improvements in breastfeeding can be observed almost immediately, while older children may experience enhanced speech clarity and easier oral hygiene, supporting their overall oral development and function.