Tongue Tie and Lip Tie
Have you or your child been having dental issues that might require a frenectomy? Although the name might seem a bit daunting, a frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that can fix or alleviate other dental issues.
The process involves the removal or modification of a small fold of tissue call the frenum. That is a band of connective tissue at either the top or the bottom of the mouth, specifically under the tongue or the upper gums.
Types of Frenum
For these dental procedures, there are two types that we commonly address:
- Labial Frenum (Lip Tie): a connective band of tissue attaching the lips to the two front teeth on the upper and lower gums. The procedure required to remove this connection and correct the issue is called a labial frenectomy.
- Lingual Frenum (Tongue Tie): a connective band of tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. The procedure required to remove this connection and correct the issue is called a lingual frenectomy.
What Issues Can a Frenectomy Fix?
Labial Frenectomy (Lip Tie Surgery)
A labial frenectomy can help with a number of issues including:
- Orthodontic Gaps: Having this thick connection causes the two front teeth to be pushed apart. Once removed, your dentist can close this gap with orthodontic treatment.
- Breastfeeding: helps infants have the correct lip position and allow them to latch to feed easily and painlessly
Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue Tie Surgery)
A lingual frenectomy improves the range of motion of the tongue and can help with a number of issues including:
- Breastfeeding: helps infants have the correct mouth and tongue position and allow them to latch to feed easily and painlessly
- Speech issues: freeing up the tongue and lips makes speech easier and more natural
- Eating: correct mouth issues to have functional improvements with eating
- Breathing: a restricted tongue can alter palate development and growth of the lower jaw resulting in a smaller airway prone to collapse during sleep
What Happens During a Frenectomy Procedure?
This will vary depending on the procedure. For infants, the frenulum is removed using a laser. It is a simple procedure, but we ensure the child is numb to not cause any pain.
For adults and older children, we provide a numbing anethesia and can provide sedation to reduce anxiety. Once the patient is comfortable, we completed the procedure to modify or remove the related frenum using a laser, scalpel, or surgical scissors. Upon completion, the patient will leave with a few small stitches that dissolve within a few days.
One Cost, No Surprise Fees
At your consultation, we’ll have an initial consultation and discuss your possible treatment and options. This approach allows us to develop a preliminary treatment plan for your specific needs and give you an exact, all-inclusive cost. There are no hidden costs, and no separate bills from different providers. The cost includes everything from start to finish to transform your smile, including:
- Pre-procedure exam
- Frenectomy procedure
- Post-procedure check-ups
- Any follow-on services
Third-Party Financing and Payment Plans
We understand how important it is to restore the dental health for you or your child with a long-term solution. That’s why we offer third-party financing options and work with you on affordable dental implant payment plans to fit your budget. At your free consultation, you’ll review all the options available to you.
Have a question? Reach out to us!