How A Simple Frenectomy Can Improve Oral Function
Some oral health problems are easy to see. Others are caused by something most people never think about—like a small band of tissue called a frenum. At North Tampa Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we perform frenectomies to help patients breathe, chew, speak, and smile more comfortably. While the procedure is simple, the results can be life-changing, especially for young children or adults with ongoing discomfort.
What Is a Frenum, and Why Does It Matter?
A frenum (or frenulum) is a small band of muscle that connects different parts of your mouth. There are several frenula in your mouth, including the one that connects your upper lip to your gums and the one that anchors your tongue to the floor of your mouth.
In some people, these attachments are unusually short or tight, which limits natural movement and causes issues like:
- Speech difficulties
- Gum recession or gaps between teeth
- Poor denture fit or stability
- Discomfort while chewing or brushing teeth
- Orthodontic relapse or difficulty with braces
In infants, a tight tongue or lip frenum can also interfere with feeding or jaw development. That’s why we sometimes recommend frenectomies early in life, but adults can benefit too.
How a Frenectomy Helps
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or loosens the problematic frenum. At North Tampa Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Sausha use gentle, advanced techniques to perform frenectomies with minimal discomfort and fast healing.
Some of the benefits include:
- Better speech and articulation
- Relief from tension or pulling in the gums
- Reduced risk of gum recession
- Improved orthodontic outcomes
- More stable dentures or prosthetics
- Enhanced breathing and proper tongue posture
For many patients, a frenectomy also improves self-confidence, especially when it corrects a visible gap between the front teeth or helps dentures fit more securely.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Frenectomies are quick, typically taking only a few minutes. We make sure the area is completely numb, and sedation options are available for patients who feel nervous. Once the frenum is released or removed, we may place a few small sutures to aid healing. Most patients resume normal activities within a day or two. Our team will walk you through every step and provide clear aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Specialized Care You Can Trust
As periodontal and implant specialists, we’ve helped patients of all ages experience better oral function through personalized care and expert treatment. Whether you’ve been referred for a frenectomy or are simply exploring your options, we’re here to help you feel confident in every decision.
Contact our office located in Tampa, FL to schedule an appointment and learn whether a frenectomy is right for you.
