Frenectomy (Lip/Tongue Tie)
A frenectomy is a procedure that releases or removes a frenum, the small band of tissue that connects the lip to the gum or the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When a frenum is too tight, too short, or too thick, it can restrict movement and cause functional problems. A lip tie can pull on the gum tissue and contribute to recession or spacing between the front teeth. A tongue tie can restrict tongue mobility, affecting speech, feeding in infants, and oral hygiene. A laser frenectomy corrects these restrictions quickly, precisely, and with minimal discomfort.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, frenectomies are performed by Dr. Alex Rubinshtein using advanced laser technology. The laser releases the restrictive tissue with pinpoint accuracy, sealing the area as it works. This means minimal bleeding, no sutures, and a significantly faster recovery compared to traditional surgical frenectomy. Most patients, including young children, tolerate the procedure very well and return to normal activities the same day.
Frenectomies are performed on patients of all ages. In infants, a tongue tie release can improve breastfeeding and feeding function. In older children and adults, releasing a lip or tongue tie can improve speech clarity, reduce gum recession risk, and support orthodontic treatment outcomes. For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, addressing a restrictive frenum before or during alignment can help prevent relapse and ensure a more stable result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I or my child has a lip or tongue tie?
Signs of a tongue tie include difficulty lifting the tongue to the roof of the mouth, restricted side-to-side movement, speech difficulties, and in infants, challenges with breastfeeding. Signs of a lip tie include a gap between the upper front teeth, gum recession in the area, and restricted lip movement. A clinical evaluation with Dr. Alex can confirm the diagnosis.
Is a laser frenectomy painful?
The laser makes the procedure very comfortable. A topical anesthetic is typically applied, and the laser works quickly with minimal tissue trauma. Most patients, including children, experience only mild discomfort that resolves within a day or two.
How long does the procedure take?
A laser frenectomy typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. The procedure is quick, and patients can usually return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Can a frenectomy help with a gap between the front teeth?
Yes. When a thick or low-positioned labial frenum contributes to a gap (diastema) between the upper front teeth, releasing the tissue can help the gap close, especially when combined with orthodontic treatment.
