Expert Frenectomy Treatment from Whiteman Dental Associates
A restrictive frenum can affect far more than you might expect. This small band of tissue inside your mouth plays a big role in how your lips and tongue move, and when it’s too short or too tight, it can create challenges for speaking, eating, and maintaining oral health. These concerns can appear in infants, children, and adults, and if left untreated, they may lead to speech delays, orthodontic problems, or gum recession.
At Whiteman Dental Associates, we perform frenectomy procedures with precision and a gentle touch. Our goal is to restore normal movement, relieve discomfort, and protect your long-term oral health. Dr. Whiteman’s decades of restorative and surgical experience ensure each treatment is thoughtfully planned and tailored to the patient’s needs. Using advanced techniques, we make the process quick, comfortable, and highly effective.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenum is a thin strip of tissue that connects one part of your mouth to another. There are two primary types:
- Lingual frenum – connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
- Labial frenum – connects the inside of the lip to the gum above or below the front teeth.
When the frenum is unusually short, thick, or tight, it can restrict movement and cause a range of functional or dental issues. A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or loosens this tissue so normal motion and function are restored.
Frenectomies are commonly performed in infants to improve breastfeeding, in children to prevent speech or orthodontic problems, and in adults to address gum recession, tooth spacing, or lingering speech difficulties.
Types of Frenectomy We Perform
Lingual Frenectomy
Often referred to as “tongue-tie release,” this procedure frees the tongue for improved movement. In children, it can make a significant difference in speech development and feeding. In adults, it may resolve long-standing difficulties with pronunciation, oral hygiene, or comfort during eating.
Labial Frenectomy
This procedure releases an upper or lower lip-tie. It can be important for preventing gum recession, closing a gap between the front teeth, or supporting orthodontic treatment. A labial frenectomy may also make it easier to clean teeth and maintain gum health.
In both cases, we use careful, minimally invasive techniques to reduce healing time and ensure a comfortable recovery.
Signs You or Your Child May Need a Frenectomy
A frenectomy may be recommended if you notice:
- Difficulty pronouncing certain words or sounds.
- Trouble moving the tongue freely when eating, speaking, or swallowing.
- Discomfort or difficulty with breastfeeding in infants.
- A persistent gap between the two front teeth.
- Gum pulling or recession near the front teeth.
Early diagnosis is important. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent complications and support better long-term oral health.
How the Frenectomy Procedure Works at Whiteman Dental
The first step is a thorough examination, which may include functional assessments and imaging to evaluate how the frenum affects movement and oral health.
Once we’ve confirmed a frenectomy is the best approach, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to keep you completely comfortable. For children or adults with dental anxiety, additional sedation options can be discussed.
During the procedure, Dr. Whiteman gently releases or removes the frenum using precise surgical techniques. This takes only a few minutes, and there is minimal bleeding. The tissue is adjusted so movement is no longer restricted, but surrounding structures remain healthy and intact.
After the procedure, you’ll receive clear aftercare instructions. Most patients resume normal activities quickly, with only mild tenderness for a day or two.
Benefits of a Frenectomy
Improved Speech and Oral Function
A tight frenum can limit tongue or lip movement, making certain sounds hard to pronounce. A frenectomy allows the tongue or lips to move freely, often improving speech clarity and making eating, drinking, and swallowing easier.
Better Oral Health
A lip-tie can pull on the gums, causing them to recede over time, and a tongue-tie can make cleaning teeth difficult. Releasing the frenum reduces these risks and makes it easier to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
Enhanced Orthodontic Outcomes
For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, a labial frenectomy can help close a gap between the front teeth and prevent it from reopening. It supports stability after braces or aligners.
Comfort During Eating and Speaking
By reducing tightness and strain, a frenectomy allows for a more natural, comfortable range of motion in everyday activities like chewing and speaking.
Long-Term Oral Stability
Addressing a restrictive frenum early can prevent future dental and speech concerns, supporting long-lasting comfort and function.
What to Expect from Frenectomy Treatment in Brookline, MA
You’ll start with a consultation, where Dr. Whiteman will examine your mouth and discuss symptoms. We’ll explain whether a frenectomy is the best solution and answer all your questions.
The procedure itself usually takes 15–30 minutes. Local anesthesia ensures the area is fully numb, and we use gentle, precise techniques to minimize trauma to surrounding tissue.
Most patients notice immediate improvement in movement. Mild tenderness or swelling may occur for a day or two but is easily managed with over-the-counter medication and simple home care. Eating soft foods, keeping the area clean, and avoiding strain on the site help ensure smooth healing. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor your progress.
Why Choose Whiteman Dental Associates for a Frenectomy in Brookline?
At Whiteman Dental Associates, we combine advanced skill with an attentive, personal approach. Dr. Whiteman has decades of experience performing precise, comfortable frenectomies for patients of all ages. Our use of modern techniques reduces healing time and discomfort, while our warm, supportive environment helps even the most anxious patients feel at ease. We focus on delivering results that improve both immediate comfort and long-term oral health.
Book a Frenectomy in Brookline, MA
If a restrictive frenum is affecting your speech, oral comfort, or dental health, we can help. Schedule a consultation at Whiteman Dental Associates to learn if a frenectomy is right for you or your child. Our caring team will guide you through every step, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience that supports lasting results.