A frenum is a muscular stretch of tissue that connects and holds other tissues in place. Occasionally a frenum might be exceptionally short, thick, or tight, or may extend too far down along the tongue or the gum and results in lip tie or tongue tie. When a frenum is positioned in such a way it may interfere with the normal alignment of teeth, speech or constricts the movement of the tongue or lips. It can be corrected by a surgery called a frenectomy. A frenectomy is simply the removal of a frenum in the mouth.
There are two frena (the plural form of frenum) in the mouth that can sometimes obstruct normal function and are candidates for frenectomies. These frena are called:
Lingual Frenum: which connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth
Maxillary Labial Frenum: which connects the inside of your upper lip to your gums just above your upper two front teeth.
Sometimes, the lingual frenum can run all the way to the tip of the tongue, causing a person to be “tongue-tied.” If the attachment is extends all the way to the tip of the tongue, then a frenectomy may be the only choice to give the child normal tongue function.
A lingual frenectomy is a simple procedure and involves numbing the tongue with an anesthetic. A small incision is then made which will free the tongue from the floor of the mouth. The incision then will be sewn up to allow the tissue to heal.
A soft tissue laser is an alternative method to to address the issue. A soft tissue laser does NOT cut but uses light energy to “vaporize” the tissue with very little discomfort. Additionally there is almost no bleeding from the laser procedure. The healing is very quick with less risk of infection.
If you or your child is experiencing discomfort and is struggling this issue, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
This was the best dentist experience anyone could ask for! This is my first time visiting this office (I went w/ a Groupon for cleaning, exam & x rays) Sonja, Melissa & Dr. Baker were all so warm & friendly. They are all very knowledgable, professional & gentle. It had definitely been a while (years) since my last dental visit so my teeth weren't perfect but they made me feel very comfortable & not embarrassed. This office now as a new loyal patient. i def. picked the right Groupon!! 🙂
A very excellent, friendly staff, from Cindy, to Sonya, to Dr. Baker. Feels very comfortable and looking forward to transferring to a health care provider I feel I can trust.
Absolutely wonderful visit! Everyone was very professional and helpful during my visit. Andy is my favorite hygienist and is as gentle as can be! Dr. Baker's expertise is top notch and it is obvious he cares for his patients. Wonderful office!
Best dental office I've ever been to. Dr. Baker and his staff were all extremely nice and accommodating. This is the first dental office I've been to that did not try to "up-sell" procedures for more money. They really listened to my concerns and made suggestions based on them instead of immediately saying "you need a root canal
Dr. Baker is very knowledgable, personable & patient. Spent ample time with me & explained everything. His hygienists bent over backwards to make me comfortable. And I had my best teeth cleaning ever. Very thorough!
Everyone in Dr Baker's office is friendly, professional and thorough from the time you walk in until you leave. You are treated with respect and consideration and issues are communicated thoughtfully.
Everyone was caring and professional. I liked the Doctor.
Exemplary staff from front to back. Excellent office ambiance. Dr. Baker is very informative to a course of action concerning the health of your teeth. Kudos I highly recommend this office.
Fantastic office staff. Very welcoming practice. Dr. Baker is very friendly, and makes patients feel comfortable. Highly recommended.
I broke a tooth last night and called the office at 8am this morning. They took me at 9am. Try getting an appointment with any other dentist on short notice like that. Dr. Baker and has staff are second to none. Thanks for the great service you provide.