Frenectomy for babies and children
Surgical correction of the tongue or lip frenulum.
What is a frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a dental surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of the oral frenulum. The frenulum is a band of connective tissue found in different areas of the mouth, such as the lingual frenulum (under the tongue) or the labial frenulum (between the lips and gums).
A frenectomy is performed when the frenulum presents abnormalities that can cause functional or aesthetic problems. Some of the common reasons for performing a frenectomy include:
- Short lingual frenulum (ankyloglossia): When the lingual frenulum is too short or tight, it can limit tongue mobility, which can affect speech, swallowing, and oral hygiene.
- Abnormal labial frenulum: A labial frenulum that extends too far down can cause spaces or diastemas between the upper front teeth, which can affect dental aesthetics.
- Breastfeeding problems: In babies, a short lingual frenulum can make proper breastfeeding difficult.
The frenectomy procedure can be performed using different techniques, such as traditional surgery with a scalpel or the use of a dental laser. The choice of technique will depend on the evaluation of the dentist or periodontist specialist, as well as the specific characteristics of the frenulum and the patient's needs.
If the tongue also pushes against the teeth when swallowing, the tongue habit is corrected with a lingual crib and exercises. Frenectomy is part of our pediatric dental practice, where we adapt each visit to the child's pace.
What is the process followed in a frenectomy?
The frenectomy procedure generally involves the following steps to ensure safe and effective treatment.
General frenectomy process
Initial evaluation
The dentist or periodontist specialist will evaluate the problematic frenulum and determine if a frenectomy is necessary. The length, thickness, and location of the frenulum will be examined, as well as the associated functional or aesthetic problems.
Anesthesia and preparation
Before the procedure, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area where the frenectomy will be performed. This ensures that the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The area will be prepared through proper cleaning and disinfection, using antiseptic solutions to minimize the risk of infection.
Incision and frenulum removal
A precise incision will be made in the frenulum to separate it from the surrounding tissues. The incision technique may vary depending on the location and characteristics of the frenulum. Appropriate surgical instruments will be used to safely cut or remove the frenulum. It can be done with laser which will not require sutures.
Closure and aftercare
Depending on the case, it may be necessary to close the wound with sutures. The type of sutures used may vary, from sutures that dissolve on their own to sutures that need to be removed at a follow-up visit. Specific instructions will be provided for wound care and promotion of proper healing.
It is important to note that a frenectomy is a relatively simple procedure and is generally performed in a dental office. The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the complexity of the frenulum and the technique used. The dentist or periodontist specialist can provide more detailed and personalized information about the frenectomy procedure in each specific case.
Is it always essential to perform a frenectomy?
A frenectomy is not always necessary. The decision to perform a frenectomy is based on the individual evaluation of each patient by the dentist or periodontist specialist. A frenectomy is recommended when the oral frenulum presents abnormalities that cause functional or aesthetic problems.
Restriction of tongue movement: If the lingual frenulum is too short or tight, it can limit the ability to freely move the tongue, which can affect speech, swallowing, and oral hygiene. In these cases, a frenectomy can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.
Separation of front teeth: An abnormal labial frenulum can cause spaces or diastemas between the upper front teeth, which can affect dental aesthetics. A frenectomy can help close these spaces and improve the appearance of the smile.
It is important to note that not all people require a frenectomy and that each case is unique. The dentist or periodontist specialist will carefully evaluate the patient's individual situation and recommend a frenectomy only when necessary. If you have concerns related to your oral frenulum, we recommend that you consult a dentist for a personalized evaluation and obtain specific recommendations for your case.
What are the advantages of having a frenectomy at ENIQ?
Technology can play an important role in the frenectomy procedure, providing several additional benefits.
Improved precision
Modern technology, such as dental laser or computer-assisted cutting devices, allows for greater precision in the frenectomy procedure. These tools can control and adjust the power, duration, and exact location of the cut, which helps avoid damage to surrounding tissues and promotes faster and more precise healing.
Less invasiveness
By using cutting-edge technology, such as dental lasers or precision surgical devices, it is possible to perform less invasive frenectomies. This can result in less tissue manipulation and less damage to adjacent structures, which in turn can lead to faster recovery and decreased postoperative discomfort.
Faster healing
Technology, such as dental laser, can help seal blood vessels and promote faster and more efficient wound healing. Additionally, some modern technologies have antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection and promote faster recovery.
Less bleeding
The use of advanced technology in a frenectomy, such as dental laser, can significantly reduce bleeding during the procedure. This not only provides a clearer field of vision for the dentist, but also decreases the discomfort and risks associated with excessive bleeding.
Improved patient experience
Modern technology can improve the overall patient experience during a frenectomy. By being less invasive and providing faster recovery, patients can experience less pain, inflammation, and discomfort after the procedure. Additionally, technology-assisted techniques can reduce the anxiety and stress associated with dental treatment.
It is important to note that not all frenectomy situations will require the use of advanced technology, and each case must be individually evaluated. Technology is an additional tool that can improve precision, efficiency, and patient experience during the frenectomy procedure. Consult a dentist or periodontist specialist for more information on how technology can benefit your specific case.
How much does a frenectomy cost?
Frenectomy
Precise Procedure
Specialized surgical procedure for the correction of the oral frenulum. Includes complete evaluation, procedure with advanced technology, and postoperative follow-up.
Complete frenulum evaluation
Local anesthesia for maximum comfort
Laser procedure (without sutures)
Minimally invasive techniques
Postoperative care instructions
Healing follow-up and control
Frequently asked questions about frenectomy in children
Get answers about frenectomy for babies and children in Madrid. customer service.
A frenectomy, whether lingual or labial, costs from €150 and can reach €500 depending on the degree of difficulty. For children, you should also factor in a speech therapist when needed. The exact price is confirmed after the assessment.
Yes. In babies, a short lingual frenulum can make breastfeeding difficult, and in those cases a frenectomy can be performed in the first months of life. The pediatric dentist assesses each case to decide whether it is needed and when is the best time.
It is not always necessary. A frenectomy is recommended when the frenulum causes problems: a short or tight lingual frenulum (tongue-tie) that limits tongue movement and affects speech, swallowing or oral hygiene; a labial frenulum that creates a gap between the upper front teeth; or, in babies, a frenulum that makes breastfeeding difficult.
No, the frenectomy procedure is not painful. Local anesthesia is administered before the procedure to completely numb the area, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the intervention. After the procedure, there may be slight discomfort or sensitivity, but this is generally well controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and disappears within a few days.
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual, but it is generally short. Most people can resume their normal activities the day after. It is recommended to avoid very hot or spicy foods and to follow good oral hygiene to promote healing. Complete healing usually occurs in 1-2 weeks.
The ideal age to perform a frenectomy depends on the type of problem and its severity. In some cases, especially when the lingual frenulum affects breastfeeding in babies, it can be performed in the first months of life. For speech problems or dental diastemas, it is often recommended to wait until the child is between 6 and 12 years old. The dentist or pediatric dentist will evaluate each case individually to determine the optimal time.
Laser frenectomy offers several advantages over traditional surgery: it is less invasive, produces less bleeding, reduces the risk of infection, does not require sutures in most cases, and allows for faster recovery with less postoperative discomfort. The laser also provides greater precision and seals blood vessels during cutting, resulting in a more comfortable procedure for the patient.
In many cases, especially when the frenectomy is performed to correct speech problems, it is advisable to work with a speech therapist. The speech therapist can help the child learn to correctly use the tongue after the procedure and develop appropriate speech patterns. Speech therapy can begin before or after the frenectomy, depending on the specialist's recommendation.