Frenectomy procedures are popularly known by many residents of Winter Haven. While people are aware that these are important procedures, nobody actually knows what they are. A frenectomy is a small surgery that removes or changes the frenulum. The frenulum is a small piece of tissue that connects the lips, tongue, or cheeks to the gums.
A frenectomy can help with problems like tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can make it hard to eat, talk, or keep teeth clean. If you have children, it is important to know if they need this procedure. For example, children with tongue-tie may have trouble breastfeeding, saying certain words, or brushing their teeth. If left untreated, this can further lead to future dental problems.
Adults can also benefit from this procedure if they have problems with speaking, gum health, or feel discomfort with dental devices. If you think you or your family might need a frenectomy, it is important to see a Winter Haven, FL dentist. Consulting with a dentist and getting assessed will allow you to know if the procedure is right for you.
Common types of frenulum issues
Frenula are small bands of tissue in the mouth, but sometimes they can cause problems. If a frenulum is too short, thick, or attached in the wrong spot, it can make things harder for babies, kids, and even adults.
The three common types of issues are lip frenulum problems, tongue frenulum problems, and cheek frenulum problems.
Lip frenulum issues (lip tie)
A lip tie happens when the frenulum under the upper or lower lip is too tight or thick. This can prevent the lips from moving freely. For babies, this might make breastfeeding difficult because they cannot latch properly. This further leads to poor milk intake and sore nipples for moms.
As kids grow, lip ties might cause speech problems. Sounds that need the lips to move a lot, like “p” and “b,” can be harder to say. For adults, a lip tie can make brushing and flossing tricky, which might lead to dental issues. A frenectomy can fix this and make lip movement easier.
Tongue frenulum issues (tongue tie)
A tongue tie, also called ankyloglossia, happens when the frenulum under the tongue is too tight or short. This makes it hard for the tongue to move properly. Babies with tongue tie might struggle to breastfeed, which can lead to poor weight gain and frustration.
Older kids and adults might have trouble with speech sounds like “t,” “d,” and “l.” Tongue ties can also make eating and swallowing hard, sometimes causing jaw problems. A frenotomy can help improve tongue movement and fix these issues.
Cheek frenulum issues
Cheek frenulum problems happen when the frenulum between the upper lip and gums is too tight. This can pull the gums away from the teeth, causing gum recession. This might lead to tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of decay. A tight cheek frenulum can also make it harder to clear food from the mouth. A frenectomy can fix this and help protect the teeth and gums.
What is the expected recovery period for a frenectomy?
Recovering from a frenectomy is usually quick and easy. Most people can get back to their normal activities in just a few days. There might be a little swelling or discomfort, but it’s usually mild. How you take care of the surgical site greatly affects your recovery.
You may be able to ease the pain using over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions based on your age or weight.
Concerned about a tongue-tie or lip-tie in Winter Haven?
If you or your child is having trouble with their frenulum, it is important to consult with a dentist. These problems can hinder development. Schedule a dental visit today!
