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Home Surgical Procedures Frenectomy


Frenectomy
San Antonio & Pleasanton, TX




Frenectomy in San Antonio provided by Drs. Hosseini & Brummerhop at


Frenectomy surgery performed at Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant SpecialistsYour body consists of several frena. A frenulum is a piece of tissue that acts as an anchor, preventing the organ to which it is attached from making too much movement. In your mouth, you have two major frena: the lingual frenulum and the maxillary labial frenulum. For most individuals, these frena pose no issue. However, if they are causing oral issues, Aesthetic Periodontal and Implant Specialists can help.



Issues with Frena



The lingual frenulum connects your tongue to the floor of your mouth. For some people, the frenulum may be too short. For others, it may even connect to the tip of the tongue. In either case, a short lingual frenulum, also referred to as a tongue tie, can severely limit movement. This condition is present at birth. If it's severe enough, it can affect your ability to eat and speak properly.

The maxillary labial frenulum connects your upper lip to your gums. If the frenulum is too big, or too thick, it can lead to a gap between your two front teeth. Braces can be used to close the gap, but the frenulum could cause it to reopen again. To successfully close the gap, the frenectomy must be performed after orthodontic treatment. Otherwise, scar tissue could prevent the braces from having the desired effect.

A maxillary labial frenulum can also be too tight, known as a lip tie. This can cause issues right from birth with proper breastfeeding.



How is Frenectomy Performed?



A frenectomy is a relatively simple, straightforward procedure. After a local anesthetic is administered, the frenulum is cut. Traditionally, the cut was made with a scalpel. However, technology is constantly evolving, and more recent frenectomies are performed with the use of a laser. After the cut is made, stitches are given.

The use of a dental laser for a frenectomy offers several benefits and is fast becoming the tool of choice. Lasers help to limit the amount of bleeding experienced during a frenectomy, cauterizing the wound as it cuts. Secondly, there is less tissue trauma involved, which means fewer sutures. Finally, the use of a laser can mean less downtime after the procedure.

Frenectomies are often performed on babies, as a tongue or lip tie can affect their ability to breastfeed, or even bottle feed. Tongue ties can also impair their ability to learn how to speak properly. If the maxillary labial frenulum is causing a gap between your two front teeth, a frenectomy can help to restore a beautiful smile.



Healing from Your Frenectomy



After your procedure, we will provide you with instructions for aftercare. Keeping your mouth clean is essential. A salt water rinses several times a day can help to prevent infections and keep the inflammation down. You should continue to brush your teeth but do so carefully around the surgical site. Any pain can be managed with over the counter pain medication. Any concerns warrant a call to our office immediately.



FAQs



What is a frenectomy?


A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing or modifying the frenum, a small fold of tissue that restricts the movement of an organ. In the mouth, it typically refers to the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenum) or the upper lip to the gum (labial frenum).

Why is a frenectomy performed?


A frenectomy is performed to correct issues caused by a tight or restrictive frenum, which can affect speech, eating, and oral hygiene. Common reasons include tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) in children, which can interfere with breastfeeding, and a labial frenum that causes a gap between the front teeth.

What are the benefits of a frenectomy?


The benefits of a frenectomy include improved tongue mobility, better speech development, easier breastfeeding for infants, enhanced oral hygiene, and the correction of dental issues such as gaps between teeth. It can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by a restrictive frenum.

Who is a candidate for a frenectomy?


Candidates for a frenectomy include infants, children, and adults who experience problems with speech, eating, or oral hygiene due to a tight frenum. A thorough examination by a periodontist or pediatric dentist can determine if a frenectomy is necessary.

What is the procedure for a frenectomy?


A frenectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia. The periodontist will use a scalpel or laser to remove or modify the frenum. The procedure is quick, usually taking about 15-30 minutes, and patients can often return to normal activities shortly after.

Is a frenectomy painful?


A frenectomy is generally not painful due to the use of local anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and by following post-operative care instructions provided by the periodontist.

How long is the recovery time for a frenectomy?


Recovery time for a frenectomy is relatively short. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two. Full healing usually takes about 1-2 weeks, during which patients should follow care instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.

Are there any risks or complications associated with a frenectomy?


As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with a frenectomy, including infection, bleeding, and scarring. However, these are rare, and the procedure is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced periodontist.

Will my dental insurance cover a frenectomy?


Coverage for a frenectomy varies depending on the dental insurance provider and the specific plan. Some plans may cover the procedure if it's deemed medically necessary. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

How much does a frenectomy cost?


The cost of a frenectomy can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure and the geographic location of the dental office. For an accurate estimate, it's best to consult with your periodontist, who can provide a personalized quote based on your specific needs.




Contact Us Today!



For most people, the frena in the mouth pose no problems. However, if either your lingual frenulum or your maxillary labial frenulum are causing you problems, a frenectomy may be the answer. Contact Aesthetic Periodontal and Implant Specialists at (210) 614-4700 to schedule your consultation today.



San Antonio:
Stone Oak

1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120
San Antonio, TX 78258-4235

(210) 614-4700

San Antonio:
Alamo Ranch

11019 Culebra Rd
Ste 162
San Antonio, TX 78253

(210) 614-4700

Pleasanton
800 N. Bryant St
Pleasanton, TX 78064

(210) 614-4700


Hours
Monday-Friday: 7:30AM – 3:30PM


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Frenectomy - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists
For most people, the frena in the mouth is no problem. However, if your frenulum is causing you problems, Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists can help.
Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 ~ (210) 614-4700 ~ aestheticperiodontist.com ~ 7/22/2024 ~ Related Terms: Periodontist San Antonio ~