Frenectomy |
Frenae (plural of frenum) are generally minor strands or bands of muscle attaching the lips, cheeks, and tongue to the bone in the mouth. In some cases the frenum is malformed and must be removed, in a procedure called a frenectomy. Individual needs or problems may dictate when a frenectomy is preformed. Many times an untreated frenum pull will cause gum recession to occur. Other times the frenum may be so large that proper brushing is impaired and possible trauma or infection can occur.
For the upper front frenum, a frenectomy is often postponed until the permanent lateral incisors and permanent canines erupt (permanent canines usually erupt about 11-13 years old). This recommendation is based on the fact that when the laterals and canines erupt, they will generally close the early diastema (space) between the permanent central incisors. If a frenum is large it may be done sooner and as early as 7 or 8 years old. If the diastema is not closed by normal eruption of the upper anterior permanent teeth, a frenectomy may be helpful, although orthodontics may also be necessary. Exceptions to postponing the frenectomy would be evidence on a radiograph of a notching in the bone between the central incisors or evidence of recession on the adjacent teeth. If recession has already occurred a gum graft may also be necessary.
An upper frenum problem does not seem to affect speech patterns. On the other hand, the frenum, which attaches the tongue to the lower arch, may interfere with speech. Generally, this will become apparent as the child begins to form words and phrases. If a notching of the tongue is noted when the tongue is protruded, it is generally recommended to have the frenum excised when the child starts developing speech patterns. Speech therapy may also be required.
A Laser Frenectomy is a simple procedure where either part or all of the frenum in question is removed in order to return a healthy balance to the mouth. At Advanced Periodontal Center, Dr. Ortiz-Ramsey uses laser energy for this procedure allowing for the frenectomy to be completed with minimal or no bleeding, no sutures, minimal discomfort and rapid healing. Our younger patients usually have the procedure comfortably while watching cartoons on the patient monitors.
See our facebook page for some before and after photographs of a laser frenectomy.
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Out of Town Patients
Our office is conveniently located near the Dayton International Airport and our staff will be happy to help you with your travel and lodging arrangements if needed.More Information |
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© 2010-2021 Griselle C Ortiz-Ramsey, DMD, MS, PhD, Inc. - All rights reserved
312 James Bohanan Drive, Vandalia OH, 45377
1020 North Market Street, Troy, OH 45373 |
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Laser Periodontist (periodontics, perio, dentist, dental specialist, treatment of gum disease, bleeding gums, bad breath, scaling and root planning, deep cleaning, gum grafts, saving teeth, lip repositioning, crown lengthening, gummy smile, and frenectomy) serving the Miami Valley including the Ohio communities of Vandalia, Dayton, Oakwood, Riverside, Kettering, Trotwood, Huber Heights, West Carrollton, Beavercreek, Centerville, Miamisburg, Tipp City, Fairborn, Englewood, New Lebanon, Bellbrook, Springboro, Union, Clayton, Troy, Piqua, Greenville, Springfield, Sidney, Celina, Lima, Wapakoneta, New Carlisle, Xenia, Yellow Springs, Jamestown, Columbus, Cincinnati, London, Richmond Indiana and surrounding communities.
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