A frenectomy is the surgical removal or release of an oral frenum, the band of connective tissue tying the tongue or lip to the jaw, performed when that band restricts feeding, speech, gum health or orthodontic movement. Common variants include lingual and labial frenectomy; lip-tie release is a form of labial release. Frenuloplasty repositions and sutures the tissue instead of simply cutting it. Tongue-tie is present in 4% to 11% of newborns, and the Cochrane review of frenotomy pooled 5 randomised trials covering 302 infants, finding reduced maternal nipple pain but inconsistent change in objective feeding scores (PubMed 28284020).
- 01Three procedures are often used interchangeably but differ: frenotomy is a simple release, frenectomy removes the frenum, frenuloplasty repositions and sutures the tissue.
- 02Tongue-tie is reported in 4% to 11% of newborns (PubMed 28284020).
- 03Cochrane pooled 5 randomised trials with 302 infants: maternal nipple pain fell, but two studies with 155 infants showed no change on a 10-point feeding scale while one study with 58 infants showed improvement on a 12-point scale (PubMed 28284020).
- 04The speech claim is weaker than the marketing: a systematic review of 16 studies found no clear connection between ankyloglossia and speech articulation, and three of four cohort studies with untreated controls reported no benefit from surgery (PubMed 33964037).
- 05Laser and blade differ mainly in aftercare, with the article putting healing after laser treatment at 2 to 3 days against 5 to 7 days after blade treatment and stitches rarely required.
/ Introduction: What Is a Frenectomy? because the number of teeth, the material and the condition of the bone all move it.
At Mosdent in Istanbul, a frenectomy starts from €120. That is a starting price, not a quote: the figure that applies to you is written down after a free examination.
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.
/ What Is a Frenectomy in Dentistry?
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:
- Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia): Restriction of the tongue due to a short lingual frenum.
- Lip-tie: Restriction of lip movement due to a thick labial frenum.
- Orthodontic spacing or gum recession due to tight frena.
Whether for functional, aesthetic, or orthodontic reasons, a dental frenectomy can significantly improve quality of life.
/ Why Is a Frenectomy Needed?
A frenectomy may be recommended for a variety of reasons, including:
- Difficulty speaking or articulating words
- Trouble breastfeeding (in infants)
- Gum recession or discomfort with brushing
- Difficulty wearing dentures
- Large gaps between the upper front teeth (diastema)
- Interference with orthodontic treatments
Treating these issues early can prevent long-term complications and enhance oral health and function.
When Is the Best Age for a Frenectomy?
The ideal timing for a frenectomy depends on individual needs:
- Infants with nursing problems may undergo the procedure within the first weeks of life.
- Children with speech or orthodontic concerns can benefit from intervention before school age.
- Adults may require the procedure to improve speech, relieve gum discomfort, or prepare for prosthetic dental work.
Early treatment typically leads to better outcomes in terms of development and functionality.
/ Types of Frenectomy Procedures
There are three main types of frenectomies performed depending on which frenum is being treated:
1. Lingual Frenectomy
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.
2. Labial Frenectomy
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.
3. Frenectomy for Lip Tie
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.
Frenuloplasty vs. Frenectomy: What’s the Difference?
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.
/ The Frenectomy Procedure: Step-by-Step
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Before the procedure, your dentist or specialist will assess:
- Oral anatomy
- Speech patterns (in older children/adults)
- Feeding behavior (in infants)
- Dental alignment
Photos, models, or a frenulum function assessment tool may be used during diagnosis.
Procedure
The actual frenectomy is quick and causes little discomfort:
- Local anesthesia is applied for comfort.
- A scalpel or laser is used to trim or remove the frenum.
- In laser cases, stitches are often not necessary.
- The area is cleaned, and healing begins immediately.
Laser frenectomies are now preferred due to reduced bleeding, less postoperative discomfort, and faster recovery.
/ Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate 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.
Aftercare Instructions
- Rinse with salt water or use a prescribed mouthwash.
- Avoid spicy or crunchy foods for 2–3 days.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- For infants, follow a stretching routine if prescribed.
Post-Frenectomy Exercises and Stretching Protocols
To prevent tissue from reattaching incorrectly, gentle stretching is advised, particularly for:
- Infants: Tongue elevation and lip stretches several times a day.
- Children and adults: Tongue lifts, side movements, and speech drills.
- Myofunctional therapy may also be recommended in some cases.
/ Benefits of a Frenectomy
Functional Benefits
- Improved speech articulation
- Better tongue and lip movement
- Easier oral hygiene
- Elimination of orthodontic complications
For Infants
- Improved latch and milk transfer
- Less maternal nipple pain
- Faster feeding and better weight gain
For Adults
- Closure of diastemas
- Improved denture stability
- Better aesthetic smile outcomes
Speech Therapy After Frenectomy: Is It Necessary?
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.
/ Frenectomy vs. Frenotomy: A Quick Comparison
| 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.
/ Cost of a Frenectomy
How Much Does a Frenectomy Cost?
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.
Is Frenectomy Covered by Insurance?
Most dental or medical insurance plans will cover frenectomy if deemed medically necessary, especially for:
- Infants with feeding problems
- Children with speech or developmental issues
- Adults requiring treatment for functional impairments
Always check your policy or request a pre-authorization.
Frenectomy and Dental Tourism: Is It Worth It?
Patients looking for affordable treatment often consider dental tourism in countries like Turkey, Hungary, or Thailand. These destinations offer high-standard care at significantly lower prices.
If considering this option:
- Verify the clinic's accreditations
- Review patient testimonials
- Ask about follow-up protocols
/ Laser vs Traditional Frenectomy: Which Is Better?
| 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.
/ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a frenectomy?
A surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenum in the mouth to improve function and comfort.
How much is a frenectomy?
Between $250–$1,500 depending on the technique and provider.
What is a frenectomy dental procedure?
A dental treatment that addresses tongue-tie, lip-tie, or spacing/gum issues related to the frenum.
Is laser frenectomy better than traditional?
Yes, it typically results in less bleeding, reduced pain, and faster healing.
Is frenectomy covered by insurance?
Often yes, especially when there are documented speech, feeding, or dental complications.
/ Conclusion: Is a Frenectomy Right for You?
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.
Let’s plan the right treatment together.
Free Assessment→- 1.O'Shea JE, Foster JP, O'Donnell CP, Breathnach D, Jacobs SE, Todd DA, et al. Frenotomy for tongue-tie in newborn infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017;3:CD011065. PubMed 28284020
- 2.Wang J, Yang X, Hao S, Wang Y. The effect of ankyloglossia and tongue-tie division on speech articulation: A systematic review. Int J Paediatr Dent 2022;32:144-156. PubMed 33964037
