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A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of a frenum a small band of connective tissue in the mouth. Frena are naturally occurring structures that connect the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the jaw and gum tissue. When overly tight or short, these tissues can cause a range of issues including speech impediments, feeding difficulties, dental misalignment, and poor oral hygiene.
This procedure is commonly performed in both children and adults, and even in infants with breastfeeding challenges. Thanks to advancements in technology, particularly laser dentistry, the frenectomy procedure is now quicker, less painful, and easier to recover from than ever before.
In dentistry, a frenectomy refers to the surgical correction of oral frena that interfere with oral function. Most commonly, it is used to treat conditions such as:
Whether for functional, aesthetic, or orthodontic reasons, a dental frenectomy can significantly improve quality of life.
A frenectomy may be recommended for a variety of reasons, including:
Treating these issues early can prevent long-term complications and enhance oral health and function.
The ideal timing for a frenectomy depends on individual needs:
Early treatment typically leads to better outcomes in terms of development and functionality.
There are three main types of frenectomies performed depending on which frenum is being treated:
A lingual frenectomy targets the tissue under the tongue. In cases of tongue-tie, this frenum restricts tongue movement, affecting speech, eating, and oral hygiene. This procedure is common in infants, but it is also beneficial for children and adults who experience limited tongue mobility.
This involves removing the labial frenum the tissue connecting the lips to the gums. A tight upper lip frenum can cause a prominent gap between the front teeth, while a lower one may contribute to gum recession. A labial frenectomy is often recommended before or during orthodontic treatment.
A lip tie restricts lip mobility and can interfere with breastfeeding in babies. A frenectomy for lip tie releases this tension, improving latch, feeding, and long-term oral muscle development.
While a frenectomy involves removing or snipping the frenum, frenuloplasty is a more advanced technique where the tissue is also surgically repositioned and stitched to optimize healing and functionality. Frenuloplasty is often chosen in complex cases or when aesthetic outcomes are critical.
Before the procedure, your dentist or specialist will assess:
Photos, models, or a frenulum function assessment tool may be used during diagnosis.
The actual frenectomy is quick and relatively painless:
Laser frenectomies are now preferred due to reduced bleeding, less postoperative discomfort, and faster recovery.
Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two. Minor discomfort, swelling, or a small white scab on the treated area is normal.
To prevent tissue from reattaching incorrectly, gentle stretching is advised, particularly for:
In cases of longstanding tongue-tie or incorrect speech development, speech therapy can be a critical part of recovery. It helps retrain muscle memory and ensure that new tongue mobility translates into clear speech.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Frenectomy | Full removal of frenum tissue |
| Frenotomy | Simple snip or release of the frenum |
Frenotomy is typically done in newborns, while frenectomy is a more definitive correction used in older children and adults.
The cost depends on the complexity and type of procedure:
| Type | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Infant frenectomy | $250 – $500 |
| Traditional frenectomy | $400 – $1,200 |
| Laser frenectomy | $600 – $1,500 |
These prices vary by region, provider, and technology used.
Most dental or medical insurance plans will cover frenectomy if deemed medically necessary, especially for:
Always check your policy or request a pre-authorization.
Patients looking for affordable treatment often consider dental tourism in countries like Turkey, Hungary, or Thailand. These destinations offer world-class care at significantly lower prices.
If considering this option:
| Feature | Traditional | Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Pain & swelling | Moderate | Minimal |
| Healing time | 5–7 days | 2–3 days |
| Need for stitches | Often | Rarely |
| Bleeding | More | Very little |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
Laser frenectomy offers better precision, reduced discomfort, and is often preferred, especially in pediatric cases.
A surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenum in the mouth to improve function and comfort.
Between $250–$1,500 depending on the technique and provider.
A dental treatment that addresses tongue-tie, lip-tie, or spacing/gum issues related to the frenum.
Yes, it typically results in less bleeding, reduced pain, and faster healing.
Often yes, especially when there are documented speech, feeding, or dental complications.
A frenectomy is a simple but impactful procedure that can solve a variety of oral issues — from lip tie in infants to speech limitations in adults. It improves functionality, enhances aesthetics, and often results in life-changing improvements.
If you're experiencing discomfort, dental misalignment, or are concerned about your child’s development, consult a dentist or oral surgeon to evaluate whether a frenectomy is right for you.
