Quick Relief for Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie
Frenectomy in Metro Detroit
Releasing Restrictive Tissue for Better Function
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a straightforward surgical procedure that releases a tight or restrictive frenum — the small band of tissue connecting the tongue, lip, or cheek to the surrounding gum. At Detroit Oral Surgery, Dr. Omar Aref and Dr. Mouhamadou Seydi perform frenectomies for patients of all ages. Whether the issue is affecting speech, feeding, orthodontic progress, or gum health, this quick procedure can deliver meaningful improvement with minimal downtime.
Why Consider This Procedure?
Benefits of a Frenectomy
Improved Speech
Releasing a tight tongue-tie can improve tongue mobility and speech clarity.
Better Feeding
In infants and young children, a frenectomy can resolve breastfeeding difficulties.
Orthodontic Support
Removing a restrictive labial frenum can close gaps and support orthodontic results.
Gum Health
Prevents gum recession and tissue pulling caused by a tight frenum attachment.
What to Expect
The Frenectomy Procedure
Evaluation
Your surgeon examines the frenum, assesses its impact on function or dental health, and discusses whether a frenectomy is the right solution for your situation.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is applied to ensure complete comfort during the procedure. Sedation options are available for patients who prefer additional relaxation.
Frenum Release
The restrictive tissue is carefully released or removed. The procedure is precise and typically completed in 15 to 30 minutes.
Recovery
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities quickly. Simple aftercare instructions are provided to support smooth healing.
Key Considerations
Pros and Cons of Frenectomy
Pro: Quick Procedure
Completed in a single short visit with minimal downtime.
Pro: Immediate Improvement
Many patients notice improved movement and function right away.
Pro: Supports Other Treatments
Can improve outcomes for orthodontics, dentures, and speech therapy.
Con: Minor Surgery
Involves a small surgical procedure with standard aftercare.
Con: Temporary Soreness
Mild tenderness at the site is expected for a few days.
Con: Exercises May Be Needed
Tongue or lip stretching exercises may be recommended to prevent reattachment.
Frequently Asked Questions
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenum — a small fold of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the gum or floor of the mouth. When a frenum is too tight or too short, it can restrict movement and cause functional or orthodontic problems.
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the lingual frenum under the tongue is too tight, restricting tongue movement. Lip-tie involves the labial frenum connecting the upper lip to the gum, which can affect speech, feeding, and dental development.
Frenectomies are commonly performed on children and adults. In children, they may be recommended to improve feeding or speech. In adults, they are often performed to support orthodontic treatment, improve denture fit, or address gum recession caused by a tight frenum.
A frenectomy is a quick procedure, typically completed in 15 to 30 minutes. Local anesthesia is used to ensure comfort, and most patients experience minimal downtime afterward.
Contact Detroit Oral Surgery at (313) 562-1515 to schedule a frenectomy consultation with Dr. Omar Aref or Dr. Mouhamadou Seydi in Metro Detroit.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Concerned About Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie?
For expert frenectomy treatment in Metro Detroit, contact Detroit Oral Surgery at (313) 562-1515 to schedule your consultation.
