What are the types of frenectomies?
There are two main types of oral frenectomies:
- Lingual frenectomy: This procedure removes or modifies the band of tissue that connects the underside of your tongue to the floor of your mouth. Lingual frenectomies are used to correct tongue-ties.
- Labial frenectomy: Sometimes called a maxillary frenectomy, this procedure removes the band of tissue that connects your upper gums to your front teeth. Labial frenectomies are used to correct lip-ties. It’s important to note that labial frenectomies can be performed on the lower lip, too — but upper lip frenectomies are more common.
What happens before this procedure?
Before your frenectomy, your healthcare provider will review your health history. They’ll also discuss the need for sedation and options for sedation, which may include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation or IV sedation. Note: Sedation isn’t always necessary for a frenectomy. Your healthcare provider will help determine if it’s right for you or your child.
When should frenectomy be done?
It depends on the situation. Babies can have frenectomies quickly and with little discomfort just a few weeks after delivery. No matter what your situation, your healthcare provider can help determine the best time for your frenectomy.
What happens during this procedure?
In infants, the frenulum is removed using scissors. Usually, this is quick and takes a few minutes. In older children and adults, your healthcare provider may numb your tissue around the frenum with local anesthesia. Once you’re comfortable, they’ll remove or modify your frenum using a scalpel or surgical scissors. In some cases, sutures (stitches) may be necessary to close the incision. Typically, the procedure takes 30 minutes or fewer.
What happens after this procedure?
Following your frenectomy, your healthcare provider will give you detailed postoperative instructions.
In infants, usually no further care is needed and they can resume feeding immediately.
You may need pain relievers to manage any discomfort and you may need to use antibacterial mouthwash. Your healthcare provider may want to see you in a week or two to monitor healing.
FAQs
Our patients experience the most discomfort during days 2-5. This healing process will ebb and flow and that is completely normal! Most patients have described this as a sore throat feeling. Full tissue healing occurs after six weeks.
How long does it take for a cut tongue frenulum to heal? ›
In the first three days, a white patch will form over the area. Within the first week, the stitches will dissolve and fall out and the pain, bleeding, and soreness will go down. In the final weeks, the healing patch will shrink, and by the fourth week, you should have a completely healed frenulum.
How painful is tongue-tie surgery? ›
The procedure is quick but may hurt a little. It can be done at a doctor's office if the baby is young enough to be swaddled and safely held still for the procedure. Older infants and children may need anesthesia if they can't stay still.
What is a frenectomy tongue-tie procedure? ›
Frenotomy (a.k.a. frenulotomy or frenulectomy) is the procedure in which the lingual frenulum is cut. It is done when the frenulum seems unusually short or tight (anklyoglossia or "tongue-tie"). In the newborn nursery, frenotomy is indicated when the abnormal frenulum is impairing the infant's ability to breastfeed.
How do you eat after tongue-tie surgery? ›
Waiting an hour before eating or drinking anything following surgery is advised. After being given the all-clear to eat, the patient should begin by eating soft and cold foods such as ice cream, smoothies, pudding, and yogurt. These foods can ease the area and are simple to swallow.
Can you speak after tongue-tie surgery? ›
After correcting a tongue-tie, speech therapy may be recommended to help older children develop optimal speech and clear articulation. Although tongue-tie correction improves tongue mobility, it takes time for the child to readjust and learn proper tongue movements for speech.
How bad does a frenectomy hurt? ›
DISCOMFORT: As with all oral surgery, some discomfort may be present as the the anesthesia begins to wear off. Usually, a couple of Tylenol or Advil will eliminate any discomfort. Sensitivity of the gums or teeth to cold or touch is common. This should go away in a day or two.
Can you talk after a frenectomy? ›
Many adults are nervous to have a frenectomy as many people think this type of procedure may negatively affect their speech afterward. There are different side effects that can possibly occur after having a frenectomy, but speech isn't known to be one.
How long does a frenectomy hurt? ›
Over the first week, the white patch continues to form while symptoms such as soreness, pain, and bleeding gradually decrease. During this time the stitches usually dissolve and fall out. Weeks two to four are when the healing patch starts to shrink.
What are the worst days after tongue-tie release? ›
For most babies, the first 48-72 hours are the hardest after a lip tie or tongue tie procedure. However, after day 3, the discomfort often subsides and feeding becomes easier. Staying on top of pain management is very important.
The procedure may also cause complications and side effects like:
- dehydration.
- inability to feed.
- weight loss.
- damaged tongue muscles.
- damaged salivary (spit) glands.
- breathing problems.
Complications of a frenotomy are rare — but could include bleeding or infection, or damage to the tongue or salivary glands. It's also possible to have scarring or for the frenulum to reattach to the base of the tongue.
Can you eat after tongue-tie surgery? ›
After the process, begin with clear liquids and gradually move up to solid foods. Remember that a balanced diet is necessary for successful healing. You can slowly increase the amount of solid food your child eats as their mouth heals.
What is the success rate of tongue-tie surgery? ›
Frenectomies are relatively straightforward surgeries that have a high success rate. In fact, the success rate approaches 100% for those who have the procedure done by a specialist.
How much is a tongue-tie procedure? ›
On MDsave, the cost of a Tongue-Tie Surgery (Frenectomy) ranges from $2,935 to $3,107. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save. Read more about how MDsave works.
What to expect after tongue-tie surgery? ›
After the frenulotomy, you may notice a pink diamond-shaped wound under your baby's tongue. A few days after the frenulotomy, a small white or yellow blister may appear. If your baby has jaundice (a common condition in newborn babies that causes yellowing of the skin), the wound may look bright yellow or orange.
How long are babies in pain after tongue-tie release? ›
For most babies, the first 48-72 hours are the hardest after a lip tie or tongue tie procedure. However, after day 3, the discomfort often subsides and feeding becomes easier.
What are the negatives of cutting a tongue-tie? ›
Disadvantages Of Clipping Tongue Tie
- Uncontrolled Speech. After a frenectomy, those with tongue tie can find that they have trouble controlling their speech. ...
- Difficulty Swallowing Food. ...
- Pain And Discomfort. ...
- Risk Of Complications. ...
- Outcome Inconsistency.
