What Is a Frenum?
A frenum is a small fold of tissue that connects the lips and tongue to the gums and the floor of the mouth. Everyone has them. Problems start when a frenum is too short, too thick or attached too close to the teeth.
- Upper lip tie: the band under the upper lip attaches low on the gum, between the front teeth
- Lower lip tie: the band under the lower lip pulls on the gum of the lower front teeth
- Tongue tie: the band under the tongue is short or tight and limits how far the tongue can move
Why a Frenectomy May Be Recommended
- A gap between the front teeth that keeps reopening, often after orthodontic treatment
- Gum recession where a lip attachment pulls the gum away from the tooth
- Difficulty keeping the gumline clean because of a tight attachment
- Limited tongue movement that affects speech, eating or swallowing
- Discomfort or a sore spot where the tissue is under tension
Not every visible frenum needs treatment. Dr. Kaceli will look at how the tissue affects your gums, teeth and function, and recommend a frenectomy only when releasing it will help.
What the Procedure Involves
- EvaluationWe examine the frenum, your gums and how your lip or tongue moves, and talk about the problem you've noticed.
- NumbingThe area is numbed with local anesthesia, so you feel pressure rather than pain.
- ReleaseThe tight tissue is gently released or reshaped. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
- ClosingA few small stitches may be placed to help the area heal.
- Follow-upWe check healing and, for tongue ties, show you simple stretches that help keep the area from tightening again.
Recovery
Most patients have mild soreness for a few days, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Soft foods are easiest for the first day or two. The area usually heals within about one to two weeks.
A frenectomy is often part of a bigger plan. It may be done before or after orthodontic treatment to help a gap stay closed, or together with gum grafting when a lip attachment has caused recession.
Frenectomy at Our Newton Office
- A quick procedure with local anesthesia
- Planned together with orthodontic, gum or cosmetic treatment when needed
- A periodontist, Dr. Milagros Serrano, on our team for cases involving gum recession
- Clear aftercare instructions and follow-up
- Patients from Newton Centre, Wellesley, Needham, Brookline and Dedham
