A frenectomy flower mound is a quite common surgical procedure that can be performed on children and adults to alleviate problems associated with an abnormal frenulum. There are two types of oral frenectomy procedures: a labial frenectomy and a lingual frenectomy. In this article we will discuss the techniques used for the two procedures as well as the factors that influence cost of having the surgeries.
Three Frenectomy Methods
Traditional Method: Uses a scalpel to remove or reshape the frenulum tissue while the patient is under anesthesia. When performed on infants, a general anesthetic may be needed but in older children and adults, local anesthesia is generally sufficient. Once complete, dissolvable or removable sutures (stitches) are used to close the wound.
Laser Method: Instead of using a knife, this method uses a CO2 or YAG laser to vaporize the tissue, cauterize the wound, and since it is virtually painless, anesthesia is generally not needed. Since the laser closes the wound while removing the tissue, bleeding is avoided and sutures are not needed. While generally more expensive than traditional surgery, the surgery is much less painful and recovery is easier.
Electrocautery Method: Also known as thermal cautery, this technique burns away the abnormal frenulum tissue using a heated electrode. As with laser surgery, this technique is generally painless, does not cause bleeding, does not require stitches, but is typically more expensive.
Labial Frenectomy Procedure and Cost
The labial frenum is a small piece of tissue that connects the upper lip and two front teeth. When the labial frenum is abnormally large, there are several complications that can arise including difficulty speaking or eating, pain in the lips and gums, and issues with bite functionality. Additionally, spaces can develop between the teeth (known as a diastema) that may result in the need for orthodontic correction with braces.
The cost of a labial frenectomy can range between $250-$1,200 but can be higher if additional dental procedures, such as gum repairs, are needed. The amount of tissue being removed, age of the patient, geographic market of the doctor performing the procedure, and method used in surgery can also impact overall cost. Laser surgery is typically more expensive as it requires a greater level of training and expertise than the traditional scalpel method. Because labial frenectomies are often not covered by dental insurance, patients may be out of pocket for the majority or all of the cost of the procedure.
Lingual Frenectomy Procedure and Cost
The lingual frenulum connects the underside of the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. Patients with an abnormal lingual frenulum (known as ankyloglossia or being “tongue-tied”) may experience difficulties nursing (in infants), swallowing, eating, and suffer from speech impediments.
The cost of a lingual frenectomy are typically similar to those of a labial frenectomy and range between $300 to $1,200 or more. The cost of the procedure is also influenced by the technique used, age of the patient, expertise and location of the doctor, and extent of the tissue that needs to be removed. When general anesthesia is needed, as is often the case with infants, the cost of the procedure can be significantly higher than if a local anesthetic is used during the surgery. Insurance coverage is also generally limited for lingual frenectomies so patients may be forced to cover much of the cost themselves.
More on Frenectomy : Labial Frenectomy
