Frenums are a connective tissue membrane found in the oral cavity that attach surfaces of the mouth to one another. Everyone has two primary types of frenums in their mouth: lingual and labial. The lingual frenum is located between the floor of the mouth and the base of the tongue and the labial frenum is located in the upper arch and connects the gum to the lip. When these frenums become impaired it may be necessary to perform a frenectomy to correct issues to improve or restore oral function. One common issue with an abnormal lingual frenum is restricted tongue movement, which can result in a person being what is commonly referred to as “tongue-tied.” A labial frenum that is too long or wide can cause a space to develop between the two front teeth. A frenectomy is a simple procedure that can be performed to correct frenum abnormalities by removing part of the frenum suing either a laser or scalpel. The procedure is relatively painless and safe and can be performed at any age.
Infant Frenectomy
Most children’s lingual frenulum separates before birth, but some infants are born with their lingual frenulum still attached to the bottom of their tongue, resulting in them being what is commonly referred to as “tongue-tied.” It is not known what causes this issue to occur, but it is more common among boys and may be linked to genetic factors. Fortunately, the frenectomy procedure for newborns is fast, simple, and relatively painless. Your infant will be swaddled, and their tongue gently lifted up in order to access and snip the frenulum with sterile scissors. Following this, your pediatrician will evaluate the tongue to ensure the frenulum has been completely clipped, after which the procedure will be complete, and your child can immediately return to breastfeeding. Oftentimes mothers notice a significant improvement in breastfeeding immediately following this procedure.
Postoperative Instructions for Older Patients
If you have a frenectomy performed as an adult, it will be necessary to return for one or two post-surgery checks, after which the frenum can be monitored for any additional issues as part of your regular dental maintenance plan. Prior to returning to these visits, follow these aftercare instructions to reduce your risk of developing complications and enjoy a fast recovery.
- Ice packs can be used to help relieve pain or discomfort
- Take pain-relief medication and/or antibiotics as prescribed
- Use a gauze to keep the surgical area clean
- Rinses or saltwater gargles are recommended two to three times a day for the first few days
- Follow a clear liquid diet immediately following the surgery until the bleeding has stopped. Once it has, stick to a soft food diet for three to five days and slowly reintroduce harder foods as healing progresses.
- Follow a well-balanced diet to facilitate the recovery process, making a point of avoiding hard foods or foods that are spicy or hot
- Continue practicing good daily oral hygiene habits like brushing your teeth twice daily
- Schedule follow up appointments to have your sutures removed (if necessary) and to monitor your recovery process
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