Frenectomy

A frenum is a fold of tissue or muscle connecting the lips, cheek or tongue to the jawbone. Frenectomy is a term that refers to the removal of one of these folds of tissue. Sometimes a frenum can be attached too tight on the gums or extend between teeth, this can become a significant problem if tension from lip movement pulls the gums away from the teeth. In addition, this can lead to diastemata (space between teeth); which prevents teeth from coming in to their correct position, and eventually causing gum recession. It is also conducive to plaque accumulation and inhibits proper brushing of the teeth.

Things to expect after treatment:

• Do not eat or drink anything sharp, spicy, or hard for the next 48 hours.
• Do NOT pull on lip.
• No physical contact that can result in a jar to the mouth.
• The area may become white or grey.
• Healing can take up to one week.
• Rinsing with salt water helps keep the area clean and facilitates healing.

Cold popsicles can feel really good too!