Frenuloplasty vs. Frenectomy: What’s the Difference?

If your child has been diagnosed with a tongue tie or lip tie, you may have heard about two possible treatment options: frenuloplasty and frenectomy. Although they sound similar, these common procedures are used for different purposes and have distinct approaches. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make an informed decision about the best treatment for your child’s needs. In this blog post, we’ll break down what each procedure involves and how it impacts your child’s oral health and recovery process.

What Is a Frenum?

A frenum (also called a frenulum) is a small band of tissue in the mouth that serves to connect and limit the movement of various oral structures. The two main types of frena are the lingual frenum, which connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the labial frenum, which links the upper lip to the gums above the two front teeth. In some cases, a frenum may be too tight or thick, which can restrict movement, causing challenges with breastfeeding, eating, or oral hygiene. When this happens, a procedure like a frenuloplasty or frenectomy may be recommended to release the connective tissue and restore proper movement and function.

Over the years, there has been a significant increase in frenulum procedures. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), pediatric frenectomies have increased by over 866% from 1997 to 2012. This surge highlights how common these oral health issues have become and how much they affect a child’s well-being.

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing the frenulum. This quick procedure is typically performed on the lingual or labial frenum. The primary goal of a frenectomy is to relieve any restrictions caused by a tight or short frenulum, which can lead to breastfeeding difficulties, issues related to dental development, or oral hygiene challenges. It’s commonly used to treat conditions like tongue ties (ankyloglossia) or lip ties, improving oral function and comfort.

What Is a Frenuloplasty?

A frenuloplasty is a surgical procedure that involves modifying the frenum to improve movement and function. Unlike a frenectomy, which involves removing the frenum, a frenuloplasty involves repositioning or reshaping the tissue to provide more flexibility. This type of procedure is typically recommended in complex cases where the frenum causes significant functional limitations, such as significant difficulties with breastfeeding or eating, and where a simple frenectomy may not be sufficient to address the problem. Frenuloplasty is generally not recommended for babies unless there are specific indications that warrant the procedure.

Benefits of Frenuloplasty and Frenectomy

Both dental procedures offer lasting benefits that can significantly improve your child’s oral health and quality of life.

• Improved Breastfeeding: Frenuloplasty or frenectomy can greatly improve an infant’s ability to latch during breastfeeding by releasing a tight frenum. This allows for better positioning and suction, which reduces nipple pain for the mother and helps the baby feed more effectively. As a result, babies are more likely to receive the nutrients they need for healthy weight gain and development, supporting their overall growth and well-being.
• Enhanced Feeding: After undergoing a frenuloplasty or frenectomy, many children experience significant improvements in their ability to eat more efficiently and comfortably. This is particularly beneficial for toddlers who may have struggled with food clearance or difficulty chewing due to a tight or restrictive frenum. By increasing the mobility of the tongue or lip, these procedures help children enjoy mealtime more and develop healthier eating habits, which in turn support their overall growth and development.
• Better Oral Hygiene: After a frenuloplasty or frenectomy, improved mobility of the tongue or lip allows for easier access to clean teeth and gums effectively. This helps reduce the risk of cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease, which is especially important for long-term oral health. 
• Better Sleep Quality: In some cases, a tight frenulum can lead to mouth breathing or contribute to snoring, which may affect your child’s sleep quality. Addressing the restrictive frenulum with a frenectomy or frenuloplasty can improve tongue or lip mobility and enhance airflow, allowing for easier breathing during sleep. This can lead to better rest and reduce potential sleep-related issues, such as sleep apnea.
• Prevents Gum Recession: Correcting a tight labial frenum can help protect the gums from recession, a condition where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. This can occur when the frenum places too much tension on the gums, leading to long-term damage and increasing the risk of gum disease. By addressing this early through a frenectomy or frenuloplasty, your child’s teeth and gums are safeguarded.

These procedures not only address immediate concerns but also lay the foundation for healthier oral habits and improved quality of life as your child grows.

Recovery Time: Frenuloplasty vs. Frenectomy

The recovery time for both frenuloplasty and frenectomy is generally quick and straightforward, especially when laser technology is used. For a frenectomy procedure, healing typically occurs within 3-7 days, allowing children to return to their normal activities quickly with minimal discomfort. Frenuloplasty procedures, being slightly more complex, may take around 1-2 weeks for complete healing. Both procedures offer a fast recovery with minimal disruption to daily routines, ensuring your child can resume their activities shortly after the procedure with proper care.

Is Frenuloplasty and Frenectomy a Cosmetic Procedure?

Frenuloplasty and frenectomy are primarily functional procedures designed to correct issues that impact oral function, such as difficulty with breastfeeding, eating, or oral hygiene. While there may be some cosmetic benefits, such as improving the appearance of the mouth or the alignment of teeth, these procedures are not performed solely for aesthetic reasons. The primary goal is to address functional concerns, ensuring your child can eat and maintain good oral hygiene more effectively.

Which Procedure Is Right for My Child?

The right procedure for your child depends on their specific oral health needs and the severity of their frenulum restriction. A frenectomy is often recommended for simpler cases where a tight frenulum is causing breastfeeding issues. Frenuloplasty, on the other hand, may be necessary for more complex cases where the tight band of tissue requires reshaping or repositioning. Consulting with our pediatric dentist will help determine which procedure is best suited for your child’s long-term oral function and comfort.

At Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are committed to providing exceptional care tailored to your child’s unique needs. With four convenient neighborhood offices in Minnesota and one in Omaha, Nebraska, we make it easy for families to access expert pediatric dental care close to home. Whether your child needs a frenectomy or any other dental treatment, our experienced team ensures a welcoming and comfortable experience. Contact us today to learn more about our complimentary preventative care visits for new patients aged 24 months and under.