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Frenectomy in Enniskillen

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What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a routine surgical procedure to correct or remove a 'frenum' in the mouth. A frenum is a small, soft muscular attachment between two tissues, the easiest way is to think of it as a kind of cord which limits movement. We have two frena in our mouths which connect the tongue lips and cheeks to the jaw bones.

If the frenum is too short, tight or tough, it may be doing its job 'too well' and can end up obstructing other functions, such as impacting teeth alignment or restricting the tongue and lip movement. This inhibited movement can cause difficultly with every day routine tasks such as eating and talking.

During a frenectomy, the frenum is typically removed to allow movement. It is a simple surgical procedure which generally takes less than thirty minutes to complete.

What can patients expect after a Frenectomy?

  • After a frenectomy, as with any surgical procedure, patients can expect some mild swelling, tenderness and general discomfort which can be controlled with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Rinsing with salt water mouth rinses several times a day will help to keep the wound clean and reduce the chances of an infection occurring.
  • Continue to brush and floss as usual but be careful not to irritate the surgical site.
  • A follow up is not usually required but in some cases, you might be asked to come back to allow your dentist to remove any stiches, healing should be complete within ten to fourteen days.
  • Like with any surgical procedure, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, tenderness or bleeding.