Overview
A frenum is a small fold of tissue that may restrict the movement of attached organs or parts of the body. Identified as the surgical removal of a frenum, a frenectomy can restore movement and diminish functional issues. At Stone Lake Dental, our certified dentists perform maxillary labial frenectomies for our Wichita Falls, TX patients. A maxillary labial frenectomy removes the frenum of the upper lip in order to diminish pain, restriction of the upper lip, and keep the teeth from shifting and creating a large gap between the front two teeth. A common procedure for men, women, and children, a frenectomy can allow you to speak and eat freely, while also helping to eliminate other painful or aesthetic symptoms. Contact our facility today to learn more about the benefits of a frenectomy.
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What To Expect
Prior to the surgical procedure, our dentists will examine your condition to determine the severity of restriction. In some cases, individuals may only need a minor cut to the frenum to provide optimal movability to the upper lip. However, in other cases, after the initial incision is made, it will be followed by an additional surgical release of the muscle fibers within the area. Once the frenum and restricting muscle fibers are cut, the incision will be sutured closed. Typically, a frenectomy is performed under a local anesthetic and takes about 15 – 30 minutes.
Follow-Up
After the procedure, tenderness and soreness are common, but pain medication may be prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. It is also essential to keep the sutured area as clean as possible. Therefore, brushing with a soft toothbrush and gently rinsing the mouth with light salt water after every meal is encouraged. These simple actions will help to reduce the risk of potential infection. Depending on the type of stitches used, a follow-up appointment may need to be made to remove insoluble stitches. Optimal healing usually takes about 1 – 3 weeks.
Improve function and movement
Many men, women, and children today suffer from a restriction of their upper lip. However, thanks to the skill of our talented dentists and modern surgical techniques, a frenectomy can be safely and effectively performed to improve your condition. If you are experiencing pain or extreme upper lip restriction, contact Stone Lake Dental today. Our practice can help improve the function and mobility of your upper lip, which can help to further improve your quality of life.