Frenectomy
Do You Need a Frenectomy? Here’s What to Know
At Worthington Periodontal Specialists, led by Dr. TJ Miller, we offer specialized care for patients with lip ties, tongue ties, and other frenulum-related issues. With over 30 years of expertise and serving Worthington, OH, Dr. Miller and our team are trusted to provide effective, gentle care that restores normal function to the oral cavity. Whether it’s a labial frenectomy for a lip tie or a lingual frenectomy for a tongue tie, our goal is to improve tongue and lip movement, allowing for better speech development, comfort, and oral health.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that removes or revises a small fold of tissue called the frenulum. This tissue connects the upper lip to the gum or the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When this tissue is too tight or restrictive, it can interfere with speech, feeding, and oral hygiene. The procedure is quick and effective, and it is often performed under local anesthetic, ensuring a smooth recovery and minimal discomfort.
Types of Frenectomy Procedures
There are two primary types of frenectomy: labial and lingual. Each procedure addresses a different area of the mouth and serves a specific purpose.
Labial Frenectomy
This involves removing or revising the band of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum tissue, known as the labial frenulum. This procedure is commonly performed when a lip tie affects the upper front teeth, causing difficulty breastfeeding or poor oral hygiene.
Lingual Frenectomy
The lingual frenulum connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A tongue tie, or posterior tongue tie, can restrict tongue movement, causing speech difficulties, difficulty eating, and sometimes even problems with oral hygiene. A lingual frenectomy removes or revises the band of tissue to improve tongue mobility.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
A frenectomy can provide significant benefits for both children and adults, including:
Improved Speech Development
Removing a tongue tie or lip tie can alleviate speech difficulties, allowing for clearer articulation as the tongue gains the necessary range of motion.
Enhanced Feeding Abilities
A frenectomy can improve infant breastfeeding by allowing for better latches and reducing discomfort for both mother and baby.
Improved Oral Hygiene
After the procedure, patients may find cleaning their teeth and gums easier, preventing plaque buildup and promoting long-term oral health.
Better Function for Older Children and Adults
A lingual frenectomy can improve tongue movement in older children and adults, making it easier to speak, chew, and swallow.
Why Trust Worthington Periodontal Specialists for Your Frenectomy
At Worthington Periodontal Specialists, we provide personalized, high-quality care for all patients, whether an infant with a lip tie or an adult with a posterior tongue tie. Dr. TJ Miller has over 30 years of experience performing frenectomies, ensuring each procedure is completed quickly and with minimal discomfort.
We use advanced techniques, including laser frenectomy, to enhance precision and reduce healing time. We believe in open and honest communication, carefully listening to your concerns, and tailoring our approach to meet your needs. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities, and we will be by your side every step of the way.
You Can Improve Your Speech and Oral Function
If you or your child are struggling with the effects of a tongue tie or lip tie, Dr. TJ Miller and our skilled periodontal team are here to help. We are dedicated to improving oral health, speech, and overall quality of life through effective and compassionate care. Contact our Worthington, OH, office today by calling 614-885-5525 to schedule your consultation. Find out how a frenectomy can help restore comfort and function to your oral cavity.