Most people don’t think much about the small folds of tissue inside the mouth—until those tissues start to cause problems. Known as frenula, these bands of connective tissue can sometimes be overly short, thick, or tight, restricting movement and interfering with daily life. A frenectomy, a simple surgical procedure offered at Precision Periodontal and Implant Center, can correct these issues and restore both function and comfort.
Understanding the Frenulum
There are two main types of frenula in the mouth: the lingual frenulum, which connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the labial frenulum, which connects the upper or lower lip to the gums. When these tissues are too tight or improperly positioned, they can lead to a variety of oral health challenges, from difficulty speaking to gaps between teeth.
When a Frenectomy Is Needed
Not everyone requires a frenectomy, but for patients experiencing significant limitations, the procedure can be life-changing. Some of the most common reasons for recommending a frenectomy include:
- Speech difficulties: A restricted lingual frenulum, often referred to as tongue-tie, can make it hard to pronounce certain sounds or speak clearly.
- Feeding or swallowing issues: For infants and children, a tongue-tie can interfere with breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or swallowing solid foods.
- Gum recession or tooth gaps: An unusually thick or low-positioned labial frenulum can pull on gum tissue, causing gum recession, or create spacing issues between the front teeth.
- Oral discomfort: Tight frenula may cause tension, soreness, or difficulty moving the tongue or lips.
The Frenectomy Procedure
At Precision Periodontal and Implant Center, a frenectomy is performed with precision and patient comfort in mind. The procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Using advanced techniques and tools—such as a scalpel or laser—Dr. Ivanov carefully removes or reshapes the excess tissue. The process is quick, often completed within 30 minutes, and patients typically return to normal activities in just a few days.
Benefits Beyond Function
While the most immediate benefit of a frenectomy is improved movement and comfort, many patients also notice positive changes in their oral health and appearance. For children and adults alike, the procedure can:
- Support clearer speech and easier communication.
- Improve oral hygiene by making it easier to brush and floss without interference from tight tissue.
- Prevent gum recession or further dental complications.
- Enhance the smile’s aesthetics by closing gaps caused by an oversized labial frenulum.
Recovery and Aftercare
Healing from a frenectomy is usually straightforward. Patients may experience mild soreness or swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and careful oral hygiene. In some cases, stretching exercises or speech therapy may be recommended to maximize results. Dr. Ivanov provides personalized aftercare instructions to ensure smooth recovery and long-term success.
Why Trust Precision Periodontal and Implant Center for Your Frenectomy
A frenectomy may be a relatively simple procedure, but it requires the skill and expertise of a specialist to ensure safe and effective results. At Precision Periodontal and Implant Center, Dr. Ivanov combines advanced surgical training with a compassionate approach, making sure each patient feels at ease and informed every step of the way. With modern techniques and a focus on precision, patients can expect a procedure that improves not just oral function but overall quality of life.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you or your child struggles with speech, swallowing, or gum issues caused by a restrictive frenulum, it may be time to consider a frenectomy. Call Precision Periodontal and Implant Center today at 310-708-3938 to schedule your consultation and learn how this simple procedure can help unlock better oral health and confidence.