What Is a Frenectomy and When Is It Needed?

A frenectomy is a common oral surgical procedure used to address issues caused by a tight or thick band of tissue in the mouth known as a frenum. These small bands of connective tissue can restrict normal movement of the lips, tongue, or cheeks, and cause various problems with eating, speaking, and dental health. In simple terms, a frenectomy involves removing or modifying the frenum to restore proper function and comfort. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and suitable for people of all ages, including infants, children, and adults. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about frenectomy, including its types, when it’s necessary, what happens during the procedure, costs in Australia, recovery expectations, and common patient questions.

Understanding the Oral Frenum

The mouth contains several frena (plural of frenum), each with a specific location and role:

• Lingual Frenum: Connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. 
• Labial Frenum: Connects the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth. 
• Buccal Frenum: Connects the inner cheek to the gum. 

These frena are normal anatomical structures, but when they’re too tight, thick, or positioned abnormally, they can restrict movement, cause discomfort, or lead to oral health issues.

When Is a Frenectomy Needed?

A frenectomy is recommended when an abnormal frenum affects oral function, appearance, or health. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Tongue-tie (Ankyloglossia): A condition where a tight lingual frenum restricts tongue movement. It can cause difficulties with breastfeeding, speech development, swallowing, and oral hygiene. 
• Lip-tie: A tight labial frenum can limit lip mobility, contributing to breastfeeding issues in infants or creating a visible gap between the upper front teeth (diastema). It may also pull on the gums, causing recession. 
• Speech Difficulties: Restricted tongue movement from a tight frenum can interfere with clear pronunciation of certain sounds. 
• Orthodontic Concerns: An overly tight labial frenum can interfere with orthodontic treatments or cause teeth to shift post-treatment. 
• Denture Fit Issues: In adults, a large frenum can prevent dentures from fitting comfortably. 
• Oral Discomfort: Sometimes, an abnormal frenum can cause irritation or pain when eating or speaking. 

Early intervention, particularly for infants and young children, can help prevent complications such as feeding difficulties, delayed speech, or dental misalignment.

What Happens During a Frenectomy Procedure?

A frenectomy is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon and is often completed in less than 30 minutes. The procedure steps usually include:

1. Examination and Diagnosis: The dentist assesses the frenum’s position, thickness, and impact on oral function. 
2. Anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the area and ensure patient comfort. For infants, a topical anaesthetic or numbing gel may be used. 
3. Removal or Modification of the Frenum: The practitioner cuts, loosens, or removes the frenum using sterile scissors, a scalpel, or increasingly, a soft-tissue laser. Laser frenectomy has gained popularity for its precision, minimal bleeding, and faster recovery. 
4. Closure (if required): In most cases, stitches are not necessary, but sometimes absorbable sutures may be placed. 
5. Post-Procedure Care: Patients receive detailed aftercare instructions, including oral hygiene tips and dietary recommendations. 

What Should You Expect After a Frenectomy?

Recovery from a frenectomy is generally straightforward and quick:

• Infants: Healing occurs rapidly, usually within 1–2 weeks. Parents may notice immediate improvements in feeding and latch. 
• Children and Adults: Mild swelling, discomfort, or sensitivity may be present for a few days, typically resolving within 1–3 weeks. 
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used as needed. 
• Dietary Tips: Soft foods and plenty of hydration are recommended for a few days post-procedure. 
• Oral Care: Gentle brushing and rinsing with salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash can aid healing. 

Your dentist may also recommend stretching exercises for the tongue or lip to prevent the tissue from reattaching during healing.

Frenectomy Cost in Australia

The cost of a frenectomy in Australia can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the type of procedure (traditional vs. laser), and the dental clinic’s location. On average:

• Standard Frenectomy: Approximately $250–$500 
• Laser Frenectomy: Often ranges from $400–$800, reflecting the use of advanced technology and specialist expertise 

Many private health insurance plans with dental extras may provide partial or full coverage for the procedure. It’s always best to confirm with your dental clinic and health fund provider beforehand.

Is a Frenectomy Painful?

A frenectomy is not typically painful, thanks to local anaesthetic used during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and manageable. Patients often describe the sensation as similar to having a small cut or sore in the mouth. Laser frenectomy, in particular, is associated with less discomfort, minimal bleeding, and faster recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.

Can a Frenectomy Help with Speech Issues?

Yes, particularly in cases where restricted tongue movement (due to tongue-tie) is affecting speech clarity. By releasing the tight frenum, a frenectomy can improve tongue mobility, making it easier to articulate certain sounds and words. However, some patients, especially children, may benefit from additional speech therapy following the procedure to develop proper articulation patterns.

Why Choose Coburg Dental Group for Your Frenectomy?

At Coburg Dental Group, we offer comprehensive oral care with a focus on patient comfort and outcomes. Our experienced dentists use the latest techniques, including laser frenectomy, to deliver precise, effective treatment with minimal discomfort and downtime. We provide clear guidance, from initial assessment to aftercare, ensuring you or your child receive the highest standard of care. Whether you need a frenectomy to address feeding issues, speech difficulties, or dental health concerns, our team is here to help.

FAQs

How long does a frenectomy take to heal? For children, recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks. Adults may take up to 3 weeks to fully heal. Is a frenectomy painful? No, the procedure is painless with local anaesthetic, and any post-procedure discomfort is mild and manageable. Can a frenectomy help speech issues? Yes. A frenectomy can improve tongue movement and speech clarity when speech difficulties are caused by tongue-tie.