Frenectomy (Frenum) Surgery in Los Angeles

Frenectomy surgery is a safe, quick procedure to remove labial or lingual aberrant soft tissue (frenum) from the mouth to improve gum (gingival) health, prevent relapse of aligned teeth after orthodontic treatment and tongue-tie. The frenum is a small fold of soft tissue that contains minor muscle fibers and attaches the upper lip, lower lip, and tongue to the gums. In certain people, it can attach too high on the gums, which can lead to gum recession and bone loss that can eventually lead to tooth loss.

There are three primary frena in the mouth:

• Buccal / Labial frenum: Thin strands of tissue that run from the gums to the inside of the cheeks most commonly near the front teeth and premolar teeth
• Lingual frenum: A thin strand of tissue that extends from the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth and occasionally can extend to the gums behind the lower front teeth. If this tissue becomes thick and fibrotic, it can cause tongue-tie (ankyloglossia).

Lingual, buccal, and labial frenectomy can all be conducted as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with other procedures to remove these areas of aberrant soft tissue to improve speech as well as gum and teeth health and comfort.

Who Is a Candidate for Frenectomy Surgery?

Anyone with an aberrant frenum is a candidate.

If left untreated, buccal, labial, and lingual frenum tissue can affect periodontal (gum) health, teeth alignment, speech, and overall mouth function.

How Is Frenectomy Performed?

The area being treated is anesthetized, and the frenum is removed through an incision. Dissolvable sutures (stitches) are used to close the incision. Sutures typically dissolve within one week. Children and adolescents, and sometimes adults, may wish to use nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to help reduce anxiety.

Frenectomy can take between 15 and 60 minutes to complete, depending on the condition of the frenum.

How Long Does It Take to Recover?

Your incision sites may be sore for one or two days. Prescription pain medications can alleviate any discomfort during healing. Your mouth is typically examined a week later to ensure proper healing.

Afshin Salamati, DDS., is a trusted specialist for frenectomy (frenum) surgery, serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and West Hollywood. To learn more about frenectomy surgery and get started, contact our office today to schedule a consultation and receive a cost evaluation. Dr. Salamati is devoted to the satisfaction of his patients. Call today at 310.275.1090 or fill out our online contact form.