Frenectomy

A tight or restricted frenum can affect speech, eating, chewing, oral development, gum health and comfort. At Marianne Tanios, DDS, we provide frenectomy treatment in Whittier, California, for children and adults with tongue-tie, lip-tie or other frenum-related concerns. A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that releases or modifies the small fold of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks or tongue to nearby oral structures.

Patients and parents do not always know the terms tongue-tie, lip-tie or frenectomy. You may simply notice trouble with speech, chewing, swallowing, feeding, tongue movement, gum pulling, tooth spacing or discomfort. Our dental team can evaluate the area, explain what is causing the concern and recommend whether frenectomy treatment may help improve comfort and oral function.

Improving Comfort and Oral Function

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenulum, which is a small fold of tissue that connects different parts of the mouth. When a frenulum is too short, thick or tight, it can limit movement, pull on the gums or contribute to oral health and functional concerns.

There are two primary types of frenectomy: lingual frenectomy and labial frenectomy. The right treatment depends on the location of the restricted tissue and the symptoms it is causing.

What Is a Lingual Frenectomy?

A lingual frenectomy, often called tongue-tie removal or tongue release, involves modifying the frenulum that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When this tissue is too short or thick, it can restrict tongue movement.

Tongue restriction may make it harder to speak clearly, eat, chew, swallow or maintain proper oral hygiene. In younger children, restricted tongue movement may also contribute to feeding or latch concerns. If these issues are present, our dental team can evaluate the frenum and explain whether a lingual frenectomy may be appropriate.

What Is a Labial Frenectomy?

A labial frenectomy, often called lip-tie treatment or lip release, focuses on the frenulum that connects the upper lip to the gums above the upper front teeth. An overly tight or large labial frenulum can contribute to gum pulling, gum recession, spacing between the front teeth or difficulty cleaning the area.

By releasing or adjusting this tissue, a labial frenectomy may help reduce tension on the gums, support better oral hygiene and improve comfort.

Signs You or Your Child May Need a Frenectomy

A frenectomy may be recommended when restricted oral tissue affects comfort, movement, oral hygiene or dental health. Common signs include:

• Difficulty moving the tongue freely
• Speech concerns related to tongue restriction
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing or eating comfortably
• Feeding or latch concerns in younger children
• A visible tongue-tie or lip-tie
• A gap between the upper front teeth
• Gum recession or gum pulling near the front teeth
• Difficulty cleaning the teeth or gums around a tight frenum
• Discomfort with dentures or oral appliances

If you are unsure whether a tight frenum is causing the problem, our team can complete an evaluation and explain your options clearly.

Frenectomy Treatment for Children and Adults

Frenectomy treatment may benefit both children and adults. In children, a restricted frenum may affect feeding, speech development, oral hygiene or tooth spacing. In adults, tongue-tie or lip-tie may contribute to discomfort, limited movement, gum recession, spacing concerns or problems with dentures.

Our team takes a careful, patient-centered approach to determine whether treatment is appropriate. We will review symptoms, evaluate the restricted tissue and explain what to expect before making a recommendation.

What to Expect During a Frenectomy

The frenectomy procedure is straightforward and is typically completed in a single visit to our office. During treatment, our dental team will help ensure that you or your child feels comfortable and at ease.

Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort, and the procedure itself is usually quick. After the frenectomy, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support proper healing and recovery.

Recovery After a Frenectomy

Recovery after a frenectomy is usually manageable. Mild tenderness or swelling may occur, but most patients return to normal routines quickly. Our team will provide instructions for keeping the area clean, managing discomfort and supporting healthy healing.

Depending on the reason for treatment, stretches, exercises or coordination with another provider may be recommended after the procedure. These steps can help support improved mobility and long-term results.

Experienced, Gentle Care in Whittier, California

Patients deserve clear communication, careful treatment planning and a gentle approach to care. Dr. Marianne Tanios received her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California and graduated in the top 10% of her dental class. She also completed a general practice residency at the Veteran Hospital Healthcare System in San Diego.

Dr. Marianne Tanios has served the Greater Los Angeles Area since 2007 and the city of Whittier since 2017. She is committed to quality, gentle dental care and continues to take advanced education courses to stay current with modern dentistry. This experience helps Marianne Tanios, DDS provide thoughtful care for patients seeking frenectomy treatment in Whittier, California.

Frenectomy in Whittier, California

At our dental office, your comfort and health are our top priorities. If you suspect that a frenum issue is affecting your oral health or your child’s oral health, we encourage you to contact us. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions and help you schedule a consultation.

Treating tongue-tie, lip-tie or other frenum concerns can help improve oral function, comfort and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomy Treatment