Frenectomy: A Simple Procedure for Improved Oral Health
At Aerni Dental, Dr. William Aerni provides expert care for patients of all ages, including frenectomy procedures. This minor surgical treatment can resolve a variety of oral health concerns, from speech difficulties to restricted tongue movement. Here’s a detailed look at what a frenectomy involves and how it can benefit you or your child.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a procedure that removes or modifies a frenum, the thin band of tissue that connects different parts of the mouth. There are two common types of frenums in the oral cavity:
- Lingual Frenum: Connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
- Labial Frenum: Connects the inside of the upper or lower lip to the gums.
When these tissues are too tight or thick, they can lead to oral health issues such as restricted tongue movement (tongue-tie), speech difficulties, breastfeeding challenges in infants, or gaps between teeth (diastema).
Who Needs a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy may be recommended for:
- Infants with Breastfeeding Issues: Tongue-tie can make it difficult for babies to latch properly during breastfeeding, causing discomfort for the mother and inadequate nutrition for the baby.
- Children with Speech Impediments: A tight lingual frenum can restrict tongue movement, leading to difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Orthodontic Concerns: A thick labial frenum can create or maintain a gap between the front teeth, even after orthodontic treatment.
- Adults with Oral Discomfort: Some adults may experience gum recession or restricted movement due to an overly tight frenum.
Dr. Aerni will evaluate your oral health or your child’s needs to determine if a frenectomy is the best course of action.
What Happens During a Frenectomy?
The frenectomy procedure is straightforward and minimally invasive. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Examination and Diagnosis
Dr. Aerni will conduct a thorough examination to identify the problem and discuss the procedure in detail. This may include taking digital images to better understand the frenum’s position and impact on oral health.
2. Preparing for the Procedure
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. For younger patients, additional calming techniques may be used to make the experience stress-free.
3. Performing the Frenectomy
Dr. Aerni uses advanced tools, such as a dental laser or surgical scissors, to carefully remove or reshape the frenum. Laser technology minimizes bleeding, reduces discomfort, and speeds up healing.
4. Post-Procedure Care
Once the procedure is complete, Dr. Aerni will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
A frenectomy can offer significant benefits for patients of all ages, including:
- Improved Function: Enhanced tongue mobility for speech, eating, or breastfeeding.
- Better Aesthetics: Closing gaps between teeth or reducing gum recession.
- Pain Relief: Reduced discomfort caused by a tight frenum.
- Faster Recovery: Laser technology ensures minimal downtime and faster healing.
Aftercare for Frenectomy
Proper aftercare ensures a smooth recovery. Here are some general tips:
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keep the area clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash as recommended by Dr. Aerni.
- Follow Dietary Guidelines: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the treated area.
- Use Pain Management Tools: Over-the-counter pain relievers or cold compresses can help reduce discomfort.
- Practice Gentle Exercises: For tongue-tie cases, Dr. Aerni may recommend simple tongue exercises to improve mobility and aid healing.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you or your child are experiencing issues related to a tight or thick frenum, a frenectomy at Aerni Dental could be the solution. Call us today at 440-238-6141 to schedule your consultation with Dr. William Aerni. Let us help you achieve improved oral health and function.