Frenectomy in Issaquah, WA

A frenectomy is a quick, minimally-invasive procedure that addresses issues with soft tissue connections in the mouth. 

It typically involves the lingual frenulum under the tongue or the labial frenum between the upper lip and gums. 

At Adara Surgical Institute, our board-certified oral surgeon performs the frenectomy procedure on infants, children, and adults, helping improve function, speech, feeding, and overall oral health.

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that removes or modifies a small piece of connective tissue—the frenum—in the mouth. There are two main types:

• Lingual frenectomy: Targets the lingual frenulum, the soft band of tissue under the tongue. Often performed to treat tongue tie (ankyloglossia).
• Labial frenectomy: Involves the labial frenum, the tissue connecting the inside of the upper lip to the gum tissue above the front teeth. This is sometimes called a maxillary frenectomy.

Who Needs a Frenectomy?

Frenectomy isn’t just for children. People of all ages may benefit depending on the symptoms and oral health issues involved.

Infants

In newborns, a tight lingual frenum can make breastfeeding difficult. This condition (tongue tie) may interfere with a baby’s ability to latch, gain weight, or nurse effectively. 

We often work in collaboration with your pediatrician or lactation consultant to assess the need for a frenectomy. Most babies are able to feed comfortably within a few hours after this quick procedure.

Children

As children develop, a thick or tight labial frenum can cause spacing between the central incisors (the front teeth). This may affect bite alignment, cause speech difficulties, or interfere with orthodontic treatment. 

A labial frenectomy may be recommended by your pediatric dentist or orthodontist to improve tooth alignment or speech function.

A lingual frenectomy can improve range of motion of the tongue, supporting better speech and oral hygiene.

Adults

Adults may choose a frenectomy to address a variety of concerns. A tight labial frenum can contribute to gum recession, interfere with denture fit, or cause discomfort.

Lingual restrictions may contribute to speech difficulties or reduced range of motion of the tongue. In some cases, a frenectomy is recommended before full arch dental implants to ensure the connective tissue does not interfere with the fit or stability of the prosthetic.

Many adults who were not treated as children find the frenectomy procedure improves their oral comfort and dental health.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

A frenectomy can make everyday functions like eating, speaking, or smiling more comfortable. It also supports other treatments, including orthodontics and full arch dental implants. 

Here are some of the most common benefits patients experience:

• Short, outpatient procedure
• Improved speech and feeding function
• Better tongue and lip mobility
• Enhanced comfort with orthodontics or dentures
• Prevents gum recession and other dental issues
• Often completed in minutes with minimal recovery time

What to Expect During the Procedure

When performed at Adara Surgical Institute, the procedure generally follows these steps:

• Evaluation: We perform a thorough exam and imaging if necessary to assess the connective tissue and determine if a lingual or labial frenectomy is needed.
  
• Anesthesia: We use local anesthesia to numb the area. For children or anxious patients, sedation options are available.
• Frenum removal: The frenum is released using either traditional surgical tools or a soft tissue laser frenectomy technique. The procedure takes just a few minutes.
• Post-op instructions: You will receive easy-to-follow aftercare guidance. Most patients experience only minor discomfort and resume normal activity quickly.

Recovery and Aftercare

Healing is typically fast. Infants will be able to feed the same day. Children and adults may experience mild soreness that resolves within a few days. In most cases, stitches are not required. 

Practicing gentle stretches and maintaining good oral hygiene can help ensure optimal healing and function.