Frenectomies for Children at First Flight Pediatric Dentistry

A frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects one part of the mouth to another. The lingual frenulum connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, while the labial frenulum connects the lip to the gums. When one of these tissues restricts normal movement or contributes to a functional problem, a frenectomy may be considered. At First Flight Pediatric Dentistry in Edmond, OK, we provide individualized evaluations to determine whether treatment may benefit your child.

A restrictive lingual frenulum is commonly called a tongue-tie. Depending on its severity and the child’s age, it may affect tongue mobility, feeding, oral hygiene, or certain oral functions. A restrictive lip frenulum is sometimes called a lip-tie and may occasionally contribute to functional or dental concerns. The appearance of a frenulum alone does not determine whether treatment is necessary; its effect on movement and function must also be considered.

A frenectomy releases or modifies the restrictive tissue to improve mobility. Before recommending the procedure, our pediatric dentist evaluates your child’s oral anatomy, symptoms, dental development, and functional needs. Input from a pediatrician, lactation consultant, speech-language pathologist, orthodontist, or another healthcare professional may also be helpful in developing a coordinated treatment plan.

The specific procedure and comfort measures used depend on the child’s age, needs, and the tissue being treated. Parents receive instructions for care following the appointment, including recommendations for managing temporary tenderness and keeping the area clean. Follow-up allows our team to monitor healing and evaluate function. Additional feeding, speech, or oral-function therapy may be recommended when appropriate.