The labial frenectomy surgical procedure is typically performed to remove the small bit of tissue, called the frenum or frenulum, between the lips and front teeth. If you have an abnormal frenum, you may experience mouth pain and difficulty eating or speaking. The presence of an abnormal frenum can also cause gum recession.
A dental surgeon or general surgeon performs a labial frenectomy. The procedure is fairly common and is performed for children and adults of all ages, though in some cases, especially young children, healthcare providers will take a wait-and-see approach.
What are Some Reasons Labial Frenectomy Needed?
Most often, a labial frenectomy involves the upper jaw, but the procedure is not uncommon for the lower jaw. Your healthcare provider may recommend a labial frenectomy for any of the following reasons:
- If you have a congenital condition known as a lip tie, or abnormal frenum between the lip and front teeth, you may experience pain in your mouth, lips, or gums.
- An abnormal frenum can also cause eating or speaking difficulties.
- Excess frenum tissue in the upper lip can cause significant gum recession between the two upper incisors.
- Fitting braces or placing oral prosthetic devices may necessitate a labial frenectomy.
- The procedure may also be performed to stabilize dentures if the wearer experiences a difficult denture fit or dentures frequently become dislodged.
- In some cases, the procedure is necessary to adjust bite function, or it can be used to improve cosmetic appearance.
How is the Surgery Performed?
Your dental surgeon or general surgeon will perform a labial frenectomy in one of the following ways:
- The traditional method involves the use of a surgical knife 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 burn the excess or abnormal tissue. The patient does not experience bleeding.
The labial frenectomy procedure typically requires 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the technique used. The actual surgical incision requires only a few minutes. Local anesthesia is administered by injection prior to the traditional surgical knife or scalpel method. Anesthesia most likely will not be necessary for the laser or electrocautery procedures, but your surgeon will still provide anesthesia if that is your preference.
What are Possible Risks and Complications for Labial Frenectomy?
Before labial frenectomy surgery, discuss any health risks with your surgeon, including age, obesity, diabetes, history of smoking, kidney and liver issues, high blood pressure, history of bleeding disorders, and long-term illnesses such as autoimmune disorders and chronic infections.
Recovery usually occurs within a few days to a week. Complications after surgery can include excessive bleeding, pain and bruising, swollen lips and gums, or infection in the surgical site. Use of ice packs to reduce pain and swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers, and gently gargling with salt water two to three times per day will usually resolve any complications.
Contact your surgeon right away if you experience signs of infection, nausea or vomiting, severe headache, fever, or dizziness.
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