A Simple Procedure With a Significant Impact
Frenectomy in Thornhill
The frenum is a small band of tissue in the mouth. There are several of them, but the two most clinically significant are the lingual frenum, which connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the labial frenum, which connects the upper lip to the gum between the front teeth. When these bands of tissue are too short, too tight, or too prominent, they can create functional and developmental problems. A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that removes or repositions the frenum to resolve these issues.
At Noble Dental Clinic in Thornhill, we perform frenectomies for patients of all ages, from infants to adults.
Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue-Tie Release)
When the lingual frenum is too tight or extends too far toward the tip of the tongue, it restricts tongue movement in a condition commonly called tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia. In infants, this can interfere with breastfeeding. In young children, it can affect speech development. In older children and adults, it can cause difficulty with speech, eating, or even dental hygiene. A lingual frenectomy releases the restriction, improving tongue mobility and the associated functions.
Labial Frenectomy
The labial frenum in the upper jaw sometimes sits low enough between the front teeth to create a gap, known as a diastema, or to pull on the gum tissue in a way that causes recession. This is commonly addressed as part of orthodontic treatment planning or when the gap is cosmetically or functionally significant. Removing or repositioning the frenum allows the teeth to close and prevents the tissue from continuing to cause problems.
The Procedure
A frenectomy is a quick procedure typically completed in a single short appointment. The area is numbed, and the frenum is carefully released. Healing is generally rapid, and most patients experience only minimal discomfort in the days following the procedure.
Why Thornhill Patients Trust Noble Dental Clinic
We do not rush appointments. We do not skip the conversation. When we find something, we explain it clearly, show you the evidence, and walk you through your options without pressure. Our goal is to be your long-term dental home, not just the place you go when something hurts.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can a frenectomy be performed?
Frenectomies can be performed at any age. In infants, a tongue-tie release is often done in the first weeks of life to support breastfeeding. In children, the timing may be coordinated with speech therapy or orthodontic treatment. Adults can also benefit from the procedure.
Is a frenectomy painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthetic or, for very young infants, with topical numbing. Discomfort during recovery is typically mild and short-lived. Most patients find the recovery very manageable.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients heal within one to two weeks. Keeping the area clean and following the aftercare instructions we provide will support a smooth recovery.
Will insurance cover a frenectomy?
Coverage depends on your specific plan and the reason for the procedure. When a frenectomy is performed for a functional indication such as tongue-tie affecting feeding or speech, it may be covered. We will help you understand your coverage before the appointment.
