A frenum is a piece of tissue that prevents an organ from moving. There is a frenum that attaches your upper lip to the gums, while another connects the lower lip to the gums. A frenum that is too short or thick, will cause problems in speech patterns and tooth misalignment.In adults a frenum can cause gum recession as well. In infants, a shortened frenulum underneath the tongue will inhibit breastfeeding. When the frenum disrupts movement, growth, or development, corrective action is necessary to resolve the situation.
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that is performed in your dentist’s office. We do this procedure with laser and takes less than 15 minutes. Using a laser causes very little bleeding and does not require stitches. A laser also results in less postoperative discomfort and a shorter healing time. This procedure is performed using a strong topical anesthetic or a small amount of local anesthetic. If your child needs a frenectomy, there is nothing to worry about.Lasers have made this procedure much more comfortable with faster healing than traditional scalpel techniques.
The case pictured below shows how a frenum release allowed the permanent incisors to erupt properly. The image on the right is one year post op.
