The cost of the frenectomy procedure is determined by a variety of factors, such as your age, sedation needed, and your health insurance annual deductible and co-pay requirements.
Your dentist is committed to providing quality care. Remember that the estimated cost your dentist provides can vary, depending on the work required. Not every dental procedure can be performed during a routine office visit. Dentists use follow-up appointments, which might cost more, to monitor the results of complex dental procedures. Discuss your individual situation and overall needs with your dentist and work together to determine the best approach for you.
Understanding the Primary Frenum
The frena are small pieces of tissue that connect your tongue, teeth, jaw, or gums within your mouth. Oral frenula are divided into three categories:
- The lingual frenum connects your tongue to your lower jaw.
- The labial frenum connects your lips to your front teeth.
- The buccal frenum connects your gums and the inside of your cheeks.
If you have an abnormal frenum, you may experience mouth pain and difficulty eating or speaking, and possibly gum recession. A shortened lingual frenum—perhaps the most common issue of this type—prevents the tongue from moving freely. Doctors and dentists call this condition tongue-tie.
How is Frenectomy Surgery Performed?
Frenectomy can be performed on infants, children, and adults. Your dental surgeon or general surgeon will complete the surgery in one of the following ways:
- The traditional method involves the use of a surgical blade or scalpel. The abnormal tissue is removed, and dissolvable or removable sutures are placed on the incision. Bleeding is usually minimal.
- Soft tissue laser surgery is a procedure where the surgeon uses a laser beam precisely focused on the abnormal frenum. The excess tissue is cut, and the site is sealed (coagulated). The patient does not experience bleeding.
- Electrocautery (thermal cautery) is a form of surgery where a heated electrode is used to thermally ablate excess or abnormal tissue. The patient does not experience bleeding.
The frenectomy procedure typically requires 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the technique used. After surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions to keep your incision area clean. You may or may not be prescribed antibiotics or other medication as directed. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day.
Quality Care and Proper Oral Health
Your dentist understands that cost might be a concern for you in maintaining proper oral health. He or she will work with you to make sure you receive the full benefits of your dental insurance plan or suggest available finance options. Whatever you and your dentist decide, the primary goal is always to prevent more serious oral health issues, which can result if you delay important procedures.
If you have mouth pain and difficulty eating or speaking that might be related to an abnormal frenum, see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further risk to your oral health. He or she will recommend appropriate treatment to meet your individual needs. Also, see your dentist every six months for regular checkups, an important step in maintaining good oral health.
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