Frenectomy

• Frenectomy is a procedure which removes the connective tissue (called the frenum) at the top or the bottom of the mouth, specifically under the tongue or the upper gums. Frenectomies are generally performed in children who are having difficulty in speech, eating, or orthodontic problems.

Frenectomies can be of two  types:

1.        Maxillary Frenectomy: Maxillary Frenectomy is also called a labial frenectomy, in which the piece of tissue connecting the upper gums to the front teeth is removed. This is also known as a lip-tie. Though this tissue is present in everyone, it issues arise when the tissue becomes extremely large or tight in infants. During breastfeeding, newborns who may not be able to curl out their lips may face problems in latching on the breast.

2.        Lingual frenectomy: Lingual frenectomy is a procedure in which the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is removed, commonly known as a tongue-tie. Tongue-tie is usually related to a short, thick frenum, which limits the tongue’s capacity to move. This condition may make it difficult for infants to breastfeed.  This condition can also affect speech and eating in children and adults.