Labial Frenectomy
What is a Labial Frenectomy?
A labial frenectomy is a minor invasive surgery which removes frenum or frenulum, a binding tissue, from between the lip and gums. Frenectomies are usually performed when the frenum or frenulum are constricting movement of the area, in this case the labial/lip area. There can be several reasons why your dental professional may recommended a frenectomy.
Reasons why you may need Labial Frenulum removal
- Infant Frenulum Removal- You may need to have immediate frenulum removal for your newborn. Frenulum disorders can impact feeding and nursing for your baby, which can have exponential effects on their development.
- The frenulum causes you difficulty eating or speaking- A relatively common and minor surgical removal of frenulum will allow you to eat and speak with confidence.
- Lip Tie- A lip tie is typically a congenital condition where the frenulum tissue between your lip and upper teeth causes you difficulty eating, speaking, and maintaining proper dental hygiene. Labial frenulum removal or alteration can often remedy this issue.
- Frenulum gum recession- Unattended frenulum can affect gum growth and recession, which can cause your gums to recede from your teeth. Some labial frenulum growth can actually cause space between your teeth as well, in the case of permanent teeth.
- Fitting Replacement Teeth- Dentures, braces, crowns, and bridges can all be affected by frenulum tissue. Sometime the only answer to keep dentures securely affixed in your mouth is a labial frenectomy.
- If the Labial Frenulum is causing you pain- Excess growth of tissue that lines your lips and gums can be painful. If you are having problems chewing or speaking without pain, labial frenulum removal may be the trick.
- Improve Confidence- Sometimes the frenulum is a noticeable growth when speaking, chewing, or smiling. This can make some uncomfortable or self conscious about their appearance. Self doubt and self esteem have deep ties to mental health and depression. You are perfect no matter what, but if this concerns you labial frenulum removal may help.
Things to consider before a labial frenectomy
- Second Opinion- This can be shocking to hear. Your dentist will not be offended if you ask to see someone else for a second opinion before surgery. Oftentimes, dentists will take a “wait and see” approach to frenulum issues. Sometimes issues like swelling or allergy irritate frenulum and just need time to go back to normal.
- Medications- Medications may cause allergic reactions, but they may also thin your blood or contraindicate your dentist’s expectation. Be sure to make a comprehensive list of all the medications you take before your surgery.
- Dental History- Make sure you insist your dentist reviews recent x rays and complete dental history prior to surgery. You want to be on the same page regarding your gum and jaw health, history of gum disease, and history of infections. This will give you a sensible time frame for healing expectations.
When to ask your Dentist about Labial Frenulum removal
If you are frequently experiencing pain in the tissue between your skin and teeth while chewing, speaking, or smiling– you should make an appointment with your dentist. Have them review your mouth and your dental history, and ask for their recommendations to resolve the issue.