SOUTHERN WYOMING PERIODONTICS
Frenectomy
For a frenectomy or any type of oral surgery, you are in the best possible hands at Southern Wyoming Periodontics. Our highly experienced team of doctors are trusted by dentists throughout the state. From your first consultation through aftercare, you will be fully informed and treated with the utmost care.
WHAT IS A FRENUM?
All About The Frenum
The frenum is a small piece of connective tissue located inside the mouth that can sometimes cause cosmetic and health concerns for dental patients. Our doctors can safely remove the frenum during a quick, pain-free frenectomy procedure. Our team at Southern Wyoming Periodontics routinely performs frenectomies for adults and children. We use the latest techniques and equipment to provide minimally invasive procedures with faster recoveries.
Why Undergo a Frenectomy?
Is a Frenectomy Necessary?
Patients have two labial frenum connecting the inside of their lips to the gums, as well as the lingual frenum, which anchors the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In children and teens, an overly prominent labial frenum can prevent the two front teeth from coming together, resulting in a gap between the teeth. At times, this frenum can also cause chronic pain and irritation. For a cosmetic or comfort issue, your child’s dentist may recommend a labial frenectomy. The procedure is often performed in conjunction with orthodontia (braces).
A lingual frenectomy is sometimes performed when a child has a large, restrictive lingual frenum that interferes with the normal function of the tongue. In many cases, children are able to work around a restrictive frenum to speak and eat normally, but sometimes there will be a struggle, especially when breast-feeding infants
A frenum can also exert an excessive pull on gum tissue, which can create or aggravate gum recession. When the gum tissue is thinned around the teeth, this procedure can help control a receding gum problem. Some denture patients also seek a frenectomy to improve the fit of their prosthetic teeth.
The Procedure
A Frenectomy Guide
In the procedure, the frenum is removed and the underlying tissue is treated to prevent reattachment. Depending upon the individual case, either a blade or a laser can be used to remove the frenum, and there may or may not be a need to suture the site. Some of our adult patients may need to undergo a gum graft at the same time as the procedure.
At Southern Wyoming Periodontics, we also use advanced laser dentistry for many of our patients. The laser prevents bleeding and eliminates the need for sutures. Typically, only a local anesthetic is needed during our frenectomy surgeries. We can also provide gentle, safe sedation to help anxious patients of all ages stay calm and comfortable.
After surgery, you may need to eat only soft foods for the first week. The complete healing process should take no longer than two weeks, and normal activities can be resumed as soon as patients feel able. Any discomfort is usually very manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Why choose sowyo perio?
Exceptional Care, Trusted Experts
For a frenectomy or any type of oral surgery, you are in the best possible hands at Southern Wyoming Periodontics. Our highly experienced team of doctors are trusted by dentists throughout the state. From your first consultation through aftercare, you will be fully informed and treated with the utmost care.
To schedule an appointment, please contact our office today.