Frenectomy

There are two frenula in the mouth: the upper frenulum attaches the upper lip to the gums above the front two teeth, while the lower frenulum connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In normal circumstances, these frenula are fairly inconsequential to oral health and function. However, when the frenula do not connect in the proper position, they can cause problems. 3D scans can help detect developmental problems in the face or mouth. Treatment for these issues is called a frenectomy, which we offer in our state-of-the-art office in Amarillo, TX.

Reasons for Needing a Frenectomy

Tongue-Tie

A common reason that patients require a frenectomy is to treat tongue-tie, which means their lower frenulum is attached to a spot that’s too far forward on the tongue. This condition typically disrupts proper oral function in young children but can also affect older children and adults if left untreated, including:

• Speech difficulties
• Breastfeeding trouble (when children are still infants), which leads to more problems as they age
• Digestion problems (caused by feeding issues)

If your child suffers from tongue-tie, we encourage you to contact our office for frenectomy treatment. One of our doctors can quickly and carefully cut the frenulum, and either completely remove it or simply re-attach it in a more optimal position on the tongue. We use anesthesia and sedation for all frenectomy procedures to ensure there is no discomfort.

Diastema

The other most common reason that patients need a frenectomy is diastema. Diastema refers to a space or gap between the teeth. When the upper frenulum is attached to a spot that’s too low on the gums, it can force a space to form between the front teeth. The treatment for a diastema is similar to treatment for tongue-tie. One of our doctors can perform a frenectomy procedure, during which they will cut the frenulum and either remove it or re-attach it in a more optimal position on the gums.