A frenectomy is a simple dental procedure that removes or loosens a small piece of tissue called a frenum. The frenum is found either under the tongue or between the upper lip and gums. In some cases, this tissue can be too tight or thick, causing problems with speech, eating, or tooth alignment. A frenectomy helps improve oral function and is often done quickly with minimal discomfort, especially when performed with a soft-tissue laser.
To learn more or schedule your child’s next visit with our Charlotte pediatric dental team, please contact us!
Our Frenectomy Services:
– Tongue-Tie (Lingual) Frenectomy
A lingual frenectomy is a simple procedure that removes or loosens the small band of tissue under the tongue, known as the lingual frenum. This can help improve tongue movement, making it easier to eat, speak, and maintain proper oral health—especially for children with tongue-tie.
– Lip-Tie (Maxillary) Frenectomy
A maxillary frenectomy removes the tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums, called the maxillary frenum. This treatment can help close a gap between the front teeth, improve lip movement, and make future orthodontic services more comfortable.
How do I know if my child needs a frenectomy?
Your child may need a frenectomy if they have trouble nursing, speaking, or moving their tongue or lip freely. Signs to watch for include difficulty latching during breastfeeding, speech delays, or a noticeable gap between the front teeth. Our team can examine your child’s mouth to see if their frenum is restricting movement or causing other issues. If needed, we can schedule a frenectomy to help improve your child’s oral development and comfort.
What issues can a frenectomy fix?
A frenectomy can help fix several common problems caused by a tight or thick frenum. In infants, it can improve breastfeeding by allowing better tongue or lip movement. In older children and adults, it can help with speech difficulties, prevent gum recession, and close gaps between the front teeth. Frenectomies can also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and wear braces comfortably. The goal of a frenectomy, as with all of our treatments, is to restore natural function and support healthy oral development.
