What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that releases a tight or restrictive frenum in the mouth. Frenums are small bands of tissue that connect the lips, cheeks, and tongue to surrounding oral structures. When one of these attachments is unusually short, thick, or tight, it can restrict normal movement and interfere with oral function.
Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)
Occurs when the frenum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is restrictive. This can limit tongue mobility and may affect feeding, speech development, chewing, swallowing, and oral hygiene.
Lip Tie
Involves a tight attachment between the upper lip and the gum tissue. In infants, this may interfere with feeding.In older children and adults, it may make oral hygiene more difficult or contribute to a gap between the front teeth called a diastema.
Buccal (Cheek) Ties
These occur when the cheek attachments connect too tightly to the gum tissue. In some cases, this restriction can limit cheek mobility, create tension along the gums, or make it more difficult to keep certain areas clean.
When a Frenectomy May Be Recommended
Restrictive oral ties can affect patients differently depending on age, anatomy, and functional demands. A frenectomy may be considered when a tight tongue, lip, or buccal frenum interferes with normal oral function or daily activities.
A frenectomy may be recommended when a restrictive tie contributes to:
- Difficulty with breastfeeding or bottle feeding in infants
- Poor latch or feeding fatigue
- Speech articulation concerns
- Limited tongue or lip mobility affecting chewing or swallowing
- Challenges with oral hygiene due to restricted movement
- Spacing concerns, such as a gap between the front teeth
Treatment decisions are based on how the restriction affects everyday function and whether surgical release is likely to provide meaningful improvement.
Did You Know?
In infants, a tongue tie can make breastfeeding more challenging. Limited tongue movement may affect latch and make feedings longer or more tiring.
Frenectomy Treatment Process
The frenectomy procedure is typically completed during a short office visit. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, allowing the procedure to be performed comfortably.
The restrictive frenulum is released using a scalpel. Some bleeding is expected immediately after the release and is typically controlled with gentle pressure. Gauze may be placed briefly to help manage bleeding before the patient leaves the office.
Recovery and Healing
Recovery after a frenectomy is typically straightforward. Mild soreness or swelling may occur and usually resolve quickly. Clear aftercare instructions are provided to promote healing and support optimal outcomes.
For infants, parents are guided through post-procedure care to support feeding and comfort, including instructions on gentle stretches to help prevent the tissue from reattaching as it heals. Older children and adults receive individualized recovery guidance based on their needs and functional goals.
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
Insurance coverage varies by plan and by patient. We are in-network with the majority of insurance providers to help estimate available benefits, but coverage verification does not guarantee payment. Treatment fees are reviewed during your consultation so you have a clear understanding of expected costs.
FAQs
Is frenectomy only for infants?
Frenectomy may be recommended for infants, children, or adults when tongue or lip restriction contributes to feeding problems, speech difficulties, or challenges with oral function.
Is a frenectomy painful?
The procedure is performed with appropriate anesthesia. Discomfort afterward is usually mild and manageable, with most patients recovering quickly.
How long does healing take after a frenectomy?
Initial healing typically occurs within days, with continued improvement in function as healing progresses.
Can tongue tie cause speech delays?
In some cases, restricted tongue movement may contribute to speech delays or articulation concerns. Evaluation focuses on how tongue mobility affects function rather than appearance alone. Extended myofunction therapy may be necessary to improve new tongue functions.
Does tongue or lip tie affect oral health?
Restricted tongue or lip movement can make oral hygiene more difficult and may affect overall oral health over time, especially if cleaning around the teeth and gums is limited.
Where can I find a frenectomy specialist in North County San Diego?
Offshore Oral & Facial Surgery provides frenectomy procedures at our San Marcos and Vista offices for infants, children, and adults. Contact our team to schedule a consultation and learn whether a frenectomy is recommended.