Frenectomy in South Bend, IN
A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that removes or modifies the frenum, a small band of soft tissue in the mouth that can sometimes be too short, thick, or tight to allow proper movement. At South Bend Oral Surgery, our board-certified oral surgeons perform frenectomies for patients of all ages, from newborns with nursing difficulties to adults managing gum recession or denture concerns. If you or your child has been referred for a frenectomy in South Bend, IN, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step with skill and compassion.
What Is a Frenectomy?
The mouth contains two primary frena: the lingual frenum, the band of tissue running along the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the labial frenum, the band that connects the upper or lower lip to the gum tissue. When one of these structures is unusually tight or restrictive, it can limit movement and interfere with feeding, speaking, or dental health.
A frenectomy removes or releases that restrictive tissue, restoring normal range of motion. The procedure is performed in our office under local anesthesia and typically takes well under 30 minutes.
Types of Frenectomy: Lingual and Labial
Lingual Frenectomy: This procedure addresses the frenum beneath the tongue. When this tissue is overly tight, it is commonly called “tongue-tie,” or ankyloglossia. A lingual frenectomy releases the restriction, allowing the tongue to move freely for nursing, eating, and speaking.
Labial Frenectomy: This procedure targets the frenum connecting the upper or lower lip to the gums. A tight labial frenum can cause a gap between the front teeth, interfere with infant feeding (sometimes called “lip-tie”), or contribute to gum recession near the front of the mouth.
Who Needs a Frenectomy?
Frenectomies are appropriate for a wide range of patients and concerns:
Infants: Difficulty latching or nursing due to tongue-tie or lip-tie
Young children: Delayed speech development, trouble eating, or feeding challenges linked to restricted tongue movement
Older children: Gaps between front teeth, orthodontic preparation, or speech therapy support that requires releasing a tight frenum
Adults: Unresolved tongue-tie, gum recession caused by a pulling frenum, or denture instability
Referrals for frenectomy often come from pediatricians, lactation consultants, speech-language pathologists, and orthodontists.
What to Expect During Your Procedure
Your visit begins with a thorough evaluation so your oral surgeon can assess the frenum and confirm that a frenectomy is the right approach. Once you are comfortable, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area. Sedation options may also be available for younger patients or patients who experience dental anxiety.
The procedure itself is brief. Using a soft tissue laser or precise surgical technique, the surgeon releases or removes the frenum with minimal bleeding and, in many cases, no sutures required. You will receive clear aftercare instructions before you leave, and a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor healing.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a frenectomy is typically smooth and straightforward. Most patients, including infants, can return to mostly normal activities within days. You may notice mild soreness or swelling for a few days, which is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet.
General aftercare guidance includes:
- Avoid spicy, crunchy, or abrasive foods for approximately one week following the procedure
- Rinse gently with warm salt water or an antibacterial mouthwash, per your surgeon’s recommendations
- Perform any stretching exercises your surgeon recommends to help prevent the tissue from reattaching
- Attend your follow-up visit so the healing site can be checked
- Infants who had a lingual or labial frenectomy can often nurse immediately after the procedure. Your surgeon will advise you on the best approach for your child’s specific situation.
Always follow the guidance of your surgeon for aftercare.
Why Choose South Bend Oral Surgery?
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons bring advanced training and a genuine commitment to patient comfort to every procedure. We understand that even a simple in-office procedure can feel daunting, especially for parents of newborns or young children. Our team takes time to explain each step, answer your questions, and make sure you feel confident before, during, and after your visit.
Families throughout South Bend and the surrounding Michiana region choose our practice for our expertise, modern facility, and thoughtful, patient-centered care.
Schedule Your Frenectomy Consultation in South Bend, IN
If you suspect a tongue-tie or lip-tie, or if your pediatrician, orthodontist, or lactation consultant has referred you for a frenectomy evaluation, South Bend Oral Surgery is ready to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better function and greater comfort for you or your child.
South Bend Oral Surgery
926 E. LaSalle Avenue
South Bend, IN 46617
Serving South Bend, IN and surrounding communities.
