Frenectomy in Salem, MA

A frenectomy is a small procedure with potentially significant impact, particularly when it addresses an issue that's been affecting feeding, speech, or oral health for years. At Essex Street Dental Medicine, we evaluate carefully whether a frenectomy is genuinely needed rather than performing the procedure routinely. Not every prominent frenum requires treatment.

We use modern laser technology when appropriate, which makes the procedure faster, more comfortable, and produces better healing than traditional methods. For infant cases, we coordinate with lactation consultants when relevant to make sure the frenectomy is part of a comprehensive approach to breastfeeding success. For older children and adults, we discuss what to expect from speech therapy or other follow-up care that may be needed to fully realize the benefits of the procedure.

01

Evaluate

We examine the frenum, assess functional concerns (feeding, speech, hygiene), and determine whether a frenectomy is appropriate.

02

Plan

We discuss the procedure, expected outcomes, recovery, and any related care like lactation support or speech therapy that may be helpful.

03

Release

Under appropriate anesthesia, the frenum is released or modified, typically using a dental laser for precision and faster healing.

04

Heal

Most patients heal within 1 to 2 weeks. We provide post-operative care instructions and any needed exercises to support optimal healing.

A frenectomy is a procedure that releases or modifies a frenum, the band of tissue connecting the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the gums or floor of the mouth. The most common types are lingual frenectomy (under the tongue) and labial frenectomy (connecting the upper lip to the gums). The procedure addresses functional issues like restricted tongue movement, difficulty breastfeeding, speech problems, or gaps between the front teeth.

The cost of a frenectomy depends on the diagnosis and what the procedure involves. The most important distinction is whether the release is being done for a functional reason or a cosmetic one, because that affects both the treatment plan and how insurance handles it. Functional cases, where the restriction interferes with feeding, speech, oral hygiene, or the fit of an appliance, are documented and submitted differently from a release requested purely for appearance. The extent of the restriction and the patient's age affect the scope as well. Coverage is more likely with documentation of a functional problem, often including input from a lactation consultant, speech therapist, or orthodontist.

The procedure is generally comfortable. Local anesthesia is used for older children and adults, completely numbing the area. For infants, topical anesthesia is often sufficient because the procedure is so quick. Most patients describe minimal discomfort for a few days after, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Laser frenectomies typically produce less post-operative pain than traditional scalpel methods.

The procedure itself typically takes 5 to 15 minutes. Total appointment time including evaluation, anesthesia, and post-operative discussion is usually 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure is much shorter than most patients expect, particularly when laser technology is used.

Infants with significant tongue-tie or lip-tie may have difficulty breastfeeding effectively. Signs include poor latch, prolonged feedings, frequent feedings, slow weight gain, clicking sounds while feeding, and pain for the breastfeeding parent. A frenectomy can dramatically improve breastfeeding success in many cases. Diagnosis should be made by a healthcare provider experienced in evaluating ties, ideally in coordination with a lactation consultant.

Yes. Adults with restrictive tongue-ties may experience speech difficulties, eating challenges, sleep apnea, jaw tension, or chronic neck pain related to compensatory muscle patterns. Adults with prominent lip-ties may have a persistent gap between the front teeth or gum recession in that area. A frenectomy can address these issues, though follow-up care like speech or myofunctional therapy may be needed to fully benefit.

Most patients heal within 1 to 2 weeks. Initial discomfort and swelling typically resolve in a few days. Complete healing of the soft tissue takes about 2 weeks. Infants typically return to normal feeding within hours. Older children and adults may need a few days of soft foods before returning to normal eating.

Many older children who have had restricted tongue movement for years need speech therapy or myofunctional therapy after a frenectomy to retrain tongue movement patterns. Younger children whose ties are released earlier often adapt naturally without therapy. We discuss whether follow-up therapy is recommended based on your child's specific situation and history.

Laser frenectomies offer several advantages: greater precision, less bleeding (the laser cauterizes as it cuts), reduced need for stitches, faster healing, less post-operative discomfort, and lower risk of infection. Traditional scalpel techniques are still used in some cases. We choose the method based on the specific situation and what produces the best outcome for the patient.