Frenectomy

Not all cases of a short labial or lingual frenum require surgical intervention. An examination by a goal focused oral and maxillofacial surgeon can determine the necessity and timing for such a procedure. The advent of the CO2 laser has made this soft tissue procedure very simple and relatively pain free. The procedure can be performed under general or local anesthesia.


Removal of Labial Frenum (Maxillary Labial Frenectomy)

The labial frenum, which attaches the lip to the alveolar bone which surrounds and supports the teeth, usually moves superiorly by the time the permanent central incisors erupt. When the frenum fails to move, excessive space results between the permanent central incisors, which is called a diastema. A diastema can be prevented by the simple surgical procedure of excising the abnormal malpositioned labial frenum.

Ankyloglossia - (tongue-tie)

Ankyloglossia is caused by an abnormally short lingual frenum which markedly restricts the range of motion of the tongue. This can result in speech abnormalities.

Edentulous Patients

In edentulous patients, a short labial or lingual frenum can present proper seating of a maxillary or mandibular denture.