A healthy smile is about more than just teeth; it’s also about how your mouth moves and functions every day. If you or your child has been diagnosed with a tongue-tie or lip-tie, your periodontist may recommend a frenectomy. This simple procedure can make a world of difference in speaking, eating, and oral development.
At Periodontal Specialists in Kansas City, our team offers gentle and precise frenectomy treatments for patients of all ages. Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your baby, or an adult seeking relief from oral restrictions, understanding what a frenectomy involves can help you feel confident about taking the next step toward better oral health.
A frenectomy is a minor oral surgical procedure that removes or loosens a small fold of tissue called a frenum. The frenum connects one part of your mouth to another — most commonly the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenum) or the lip to the gums (labial frenum).
When the frenum is too tight, short, or thick, it can restrict movement and lead to functional challenges. These conditions are known as:
A frenectomy corrects these restrictions by removing or reshaping the problematic tissue, allowing for better oral mobility and overall function.
Frenum restrictions are typically congenital, meaning they’re present at birth. While some ties may stretch or resolve naturally as a child grows, others remain tight and interfere with daily function.
Tongue-ties and lip-ties can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they’re not noticed until later in life. Recognizing the signs early is key to preventing long-term issues with speech, eating, or dental development.
If you notice any of these symptoms, a periodontist in Kansas City can evaluate your oral tissues and determine whether a frenectomy would be beneficial.
This procedure releases a tongue-tie by removing or modifying the frenum beneath the tongue. It helps improve tongue mobility, making it easier to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene.
A labial frenectomy focuses on the tissue connecting the upper or lower lip to the gums. It’s often recommended when a lip-tie causes a gap between the front teeth, gum recession, or challenges with denture fit in adults.
Both procedures are minimally invasive and can be performed using traditional surgical methods or laser technology. Laser frenectomies offer additional benefits such as:
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at Periodontal Specialists. Your periodontist will:
If a frenectomy is recommended, the procedure can often be completed in one short visit.
The entire process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Your periodontist may also recommend stretching exercises to prevent reattachment and improve mobility.
No matter your age, the benefits of a properly performed frenectomy can significantly improve comfort, confidence, and oral wellness.
At Periodontal Specialists, we’re committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Our Kansas City periodontists are highly skilled in performing both traditional and laser frenectomies with precision and attention to detail.
We focus on:
Our goal is to help you or your child achieve a healthier, more functional smile with minimal stress and maximum results.
If you suspect a tongue-tie or lip-tie may be affecting your or your child’s oral function, don’t wait; early evaluation can make all the difference.
Contact Periodontal Specialists today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Kansas City periodontist. We’ll guide you through every step of the process and ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Restore comfort, improve function, and smile with confidence with expert frenectomy care from Periodontal Specialists in Kansas City.
