Covington Hammond 
Frenectomy Treatment
A restrictive frenum can lead to oral health challenges that affect speaking, eating, and overall dental wellness. At The OMS Center of South Louisiana, our expert team, led by Joshua S. Brandner, DDS, MD, specializes in performing frenectomy procedures to alleviate discomfort and improve oral function. With advanced techniques and compassionate care, we ensure a smooth experience and long-lasting results for patients of all ages.
A frenectomy is a simple oral surgical procedure that removes or modifies a restrictive frenum. The frenum is a thin band of soft tissue that connects various parts of the mouth, such as:
When a frenum is too short, tight, or improperly positioned, it can restrict movement and lead to functional issues. A frenectomy corrects these problems by releasing the tension, allowing for better mobility and improved oral health.
At The OMS Center of South Louisiana, we prioritize patient comfort and use advanced techniques to make the frenectomy process efficient and stress-free. Dr. Brandner will conduct a detailed examination to assess the severity of the issue, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have. During the treatment, local anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience. Dr. Brandner carefully removes or releases the frenum using a laser. The procedure is quick, often taking just a few minutes.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and recover quickly. Dr. Brandner will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.
By addressing these conditions, a frenectomy promotes proper oral function, comfort, and long-term oral health for patients of all ages. Conditions include:
A tight or short lingual frenum restricts tongue movement, which can impact:
A tight or thick labial frenum prevents the upper lip from moving freely, causing:
By releasing the frenum, a frenectomy improves feeding, oral health, and dental alignment.
An abnormal frenum attachment can pull on the gums, contributing to recession and exposing sensitive tooth roots. A frenectomy eliminates this tension, protecting gum health and preventing further damage.
Limited tongue movement can make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds, such as “t,” “d,” “l,” or “r.” By addressing the restrictive frenum, a frenectomy restores normal tongue function, often improving speech clarity.
A restrictive frenum can hinder proper brushing and flossing, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities. A frenectomy makes oral hygiene routines easier and more effective.
A frenectomy offers significant improvements in oral health, comfort, and function. Benefits include:
A frenectomy can benefit:
If you or your child experience these symptoms, Dr. Brandner will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether a frenectomy is the best solution.
Recovery from a frenectomy is simple and fast. Most patients resume normal activities the same day or within 24 hours. Post-procedure care may include:
Dr. Brandner and his team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your progress during follow-up visits.
The results of a frenectomy are often noticeable immediately after the procedure. Infants who undergo a frenectomy for tongue-tie or lip-tie typically experience improved breastfeeding and latch within hours. For older children and adults, increased mobility in the tongue or lip is often apparent right away, with further improvements in speech, eating, or oral function becoming more noticeable as the area heals over the next 1-2 weeks.
The results of a frenectomy are permanent. Once the restrictive frenum is removed or adjusted, the tongue or lip can move freely without tension or pulling. This long-lasting result allows for continued improvements in oral function, speech development, and overall comfort.
The procedure is quick and typically completed in 15-30 minutes.
Local anesthesia ensures the procedure is virtually painless. Some mild discomfort afterward is normal but subsides quickly.
Yes, releasing tongue-tie or lip-tie can significantly improve an infant’s ability to latch and feed.
In some cases, speech therapy may complement the procedure to maximize improvements in speech development.
Most patients recover within 1-2 days, with little to no downtime required.
Untreated tongue-tie or lip-tie can cause ongoing issues, including speech delays, dental gaps, gum recession, and oral hygiene difficulties.
Yes, a frenectomy is a safe, common procedure that delivers significant benefits when performed by an experienced specialist.
Dr. Brandner may schedule a follow-up visit to ensure proper healing and mobility improvements.
