Surgical Dentistry
Frenectomy in Fullerton, CA
Releasing a tight tongue or lip attachment.
A short, tight band of tissue under the tongue or upper lip can restrict movement or affect the teeth and gums. A frenectomy releases it.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenum is a small fold of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the lips to the gums. Everyone has them, but sometimes a frenum is short, thick or tight. Under the tongue, this is often called a tongue tie; under the upper lip, a lip tie. A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases or removes the tight tissue. It may be recommended when the attachment limits movement, pulls on the gums, or helps hold a gap open between the front teeth.
When a Frenectomy May Help
Common reasons to release a tight frenum.
- Tongue Tie When a tight frenum under the tongue limits its movement.
- Lip Tie When the upper lip attachment pulls on the gums.
- Gaps Between Teeth When a low attachment helps keep a gap between the front teeth.
How the Procedure Works
We examine the frenum and how it affects movement, the gums or the teeth before recommending treatment. The area is numbed with local anesthetic, and the tight tissue is released. You go home with simple aftercare instructions.
What to Expect
- An exam of the attachment first
- Local anesthetic for comfort
- A short procedure
- Simple aftercare instructions
Related Care
For children’s dental care, see pediatric dentistry. For gaps between teeth, see clear aligners.
The short answer
A frenum is a small fold of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the lips to the gums, and when it is short or tight it is often called a tongue tie or lip tie. A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases or removes that tight tissue under local anesthetic. It may be recommended when the attachment limits movement, pulls on the gums or helps hold a gap open between the front teeth, and the area is examined first before anything is recommended.
Frenectomy FAQ
- What is a frenum?
- A frenum is a small fold of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the lips to the gums. Everyone has them. Sometimes one is short, thick or tight.
- What is the difference between a tongue tie and a lip tie?
- A tongue tie is a tight frenum under the tongue. A lip tie is a tight frenum under the upper lip. Either can be released with a frenectomy if it causes problems.
- When is a frenectomy recommended?
- It may be recommended when the attachment limits movement or pulls on the gums. A low lip attachment can also help hold a gap open between the front teeth. We examine the area before recommending anything.
- What is recovery like?
- The procedure is short and done with local anesthetic. Some tenderness is normal for a few days. We give you simple aftercare instructions.
Insurance & Financing
Benefits and participation vary by plan. Please contact our office so we can help you verify your coverage and understand your options before treatment.
CareCredit and Cherry are available. Terms and approval are set by each provider.