frenectomy

Frenum tissue connects the lower gums to the tongue and the upper gums to the upper lip. Abnormally sized frenum tissue may affect oral function, movement, and appearance. During a frenotomy, laser light vaporizes the frenum under the tongue or upper lip to allow for better range of motion.

The frenum attached to the tongue may sometimes be too large, restricting the tongue’s movement. Untreated, a prominent lingual frenum may lead to speech issues, misalignment of teeth, and inhibited jaw development.

The frenum attaching the upper gums and center upper lip may need to be treated if it hinders gum tissue development, causes alignment issues, or leads to a gap between the top middle teeth.

Ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, is the restriction of tongue movement as a result of fusion or adherence of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A tongue-tie is therefore caused by a frenum that is abnormally short or attached too close to the tip of the tongue.

A lip-tie occurs when the upper lip remains attached to the upper gum. It can lead to problems with speech and eating habits, jaw pain and protusion, clicking jaws, difficulty kissing, licking lollipops or ice cream, a gap between teeth, pain with breastfeeding, and other oral health issues.

All frenectomy procedures are completed using a precision CO2 laser. This laser does not emit heat or water and cauterizes as it works. As a result, you experience maximum comfort and minimal trauma, bleeding, and scar tissue.

If you struggle with dental anxiety, we also offer oral conscious sedation and in-office general anesthesia to ensure a peaceful experience.