Lingual Frenectomy
A lingual frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that releases or removes the lingual frenulum, the small band of tissue located beneath the tongue. This procedure may be recommended when the frenulum is unusually tight or restrictive, a condition commonly known as “tongue-tie,” which can interfere with normal tongue movement. Dentists or specialists may recommend a lingual frenectomy to help improve difficulties related to speech, breastfeeding, eating, oral hygiene, swallowing, or overall tongue function. The procedure is typically quick, well tolerated, and can provide significant functional benefits for both children and adults.
Labial Frenectomy
This procedure involves the removal or repositioning of the labial frenulum, which is the small band of tissue that connects the inside of the upper or lower lip to the gums. The most frequently discussed is the maxillary labial frenulum, located between the upper front teeth and upper lip.
A labial frenectomy may be recommended when this tissue is too tight or positioned too low, which can contribute to issues such as a gap between the front teeth (midline diastema), gum recession, difficulty with oral hygiene, or irritation of the gum tissue. Like a lingual frenectomy, it is a relatively minor procedure and is typically performed to improve function, oral health, or orthodontic outcomes.