Labial Frenectomy

A labial frenectomy marin county is a relatively common and safe procedure that involves removing the frenum between the lip and front teeth. A labial frenectomy can be performed on patients of all ages, and is generally done for the following reasons:

• Correct lip tie, a congenital condition characterized by an abnormal frenum between the front teeth and lip
• Correct issues associated with lip tie, such as pain, gum recession, difficulty speaking, and/or difficulty eating
• Improve bite function
• Correct issues with breastfeeding among newborns
• Improve cosmetic appearance
• Stabilize and/or improve comfort of dentures that are becoming dislodged and/or are uncomfortable
• As part of placement of oral devices or other orthodontic procedures

Steps Involved in Labial Frenectomy

There are several different approaches to performing a labial frenectomy. Which procedural approach is performed will depend upon your specific needs and the preferred methodology of your periodontist or oral surgeon.

The traditional approach to performing a labial frenectomy begins with administration of local anesthesia (if necessary) followed by the removal of the abnormal frenulum tissue using a surgical knife, after which sutures are used at the incision site. Modern methods for performing a labial frenectomy involve using a YAG or CO2 laser instead of a scalpel. The excess tissue is vaporized using a precisely focused laser beam onto the target site.  Electrocautery is another treatment approach which involves burning the abnormal or excess tissue using a heated electrode. All of these are effective treatment options, and oftentimes which approach is taken is informed by your periodontist or oral surgeon’s personal preference.

Post-Operative Care

To reduce your risk of developing complications and enjoy a fast recovery, follow these aftercare instructions following your labial frenectomy:

• Use ice packs 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

Warning Signs

The following symptoms may be an indication that complications have occurred, in which case you should contact your dentist, periodontist, or physician to schedule a follow up examination:

• Surgical wound pain and swelling begins to worsen
• Swollen lips or gums
• Fluid drainage or bleeding from surgical wound
• Vomiting or nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Signs of infection
• Negative reaction to prescribed medication as part of treatment

Fortunately, complications following a labial frenectomy are rare, but it is important to be aware of all potential risks so you can address and correct any issues that might occur.

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