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Oral health plays a significant role in our overall well-being, impacting everything from speech and eating to facial development. However, certain oral conditions, such as a restrictive frenulum, can hinder proper oral function and lead to various challenges. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a solution known as "Frenectomy" to address these issues effectively. At Spera Dental, a frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed to address the presence of a restrictive or abnormal frenulum. A frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects two structures in the mouth, such as the tongue to the mouth's floor or the gum tissue's upper lip. In some individuals, these frenula can be too tight, short, or thick, causing limitations in oral movements and proper function.

The Benefits of Frenectomy

Improved Speech and Articulation

For individuals with tongue ties, a tight lingual frenulum can limit the tongue's range of motion, affecting speech and articulation. A frenectomy can release the restriction, allowing for better tongue movement and speech clarity.

Enhanced Breastfeeding for Infants

Tongue tie-in infants can make breastfeeding challenging for both the baby and the mother. Babies with ankyloglossia may have difficulty latching correctly, leading to inadequate milk transfer and discomfort during nursing. Infants can breastfeed more effectively and comfortably by releasing the tight lingual frenulum through a frenectomy.

Improved Oral Hygiene

A tight frenulum, particularly in the upper lip, can create difficulty properly cleaning and maintaining oral hygiene. After a frenectomy, access to clean the affected areas becomes easier, reducing the risk of dental issues and gum problems.

Orthodontic Benefits

A tight labial frenulum can sometimes cause a gap between the upper front teeth. A frenectomy can aid in orthodontic treatment by eliminating the pulling force of the frenulum, allowing for more effective teeth alignment and closing of the gap.

Enhanced Comfort and Reduced Pain

A restrictive frenulum can cause discomfort and pain, especially if it pulls on the gum tissue or affects tongue movements during eating and speaking. A frenectomy can alleviate such discomfort, improving oral function and overall comfort.

The Frenectomy Procedure

Frenectomy is a relatively simple and quick procedure that can often be performed with minimal discomfort. A thorough oral examination assesses the frenulum's condition and its impact on oral function. Before the process begins, a local anesthetic is applied to the area to ensure the patient's comfort. The dentist or oral surgeon carefully cuts or vaporizes the restrictive frenulum using either a scalpel or a laser. In some cases, sutures may be placed to aid in healing. Dissolvable sutures are typically used for minimal inconvenience.

Frenectomy is a transformative procedure that addresses restrictive frenula and allows individuals to experience improved oral health and function. If you or your child is experiencing oral issues related to a tight frenulum, visit Spera Dental at 5190 E. Farness Drive, Suite 102, Tucson, AZ 85712, or call (520) 323-3241 to explore the potential benefits of a frenectomy.