Frenectomy procedure at ClearCare Periodontal & Implant Centre in Winnipeg, MB

Our specialists are adept at restoring healthy oral structures and at addressing congenital conditions that can affect functionality and are frequently underdiagnosed. The high or active frenum attachment could cause a condition known as “Tongue-tie” or can stop front teeth from coming together and cause a condition called “diastema”.

Frenectomy procedures are performed by our board certified periodontist, Dr. Hoda Hosseini.

Tongue-tie

Known as “ankyloglossia”, tongue-tie describes a condition where the lingual frenulum tissue that connects the base of the tongue to the underlying tissue in the lower jaw is either overly short, too thick, or too tight. The lingual frenulum may “tether” the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Since the frenulum supports the proper position and stability of oral tissues, children with tongue-tie can encounter many developmental problems, including:

  • Inadequate nutrition in their formative years due to difficulties breastfeeding.
  • Problems pronouncing words correctly.
  • Painful swallowing
  • Mouth-breathing, sleep-disordered breathing
  • Gaps, uneven spacing between teeth, and jaw-related abnormalities
  • Difficulty keeping teeth clean, eating some foods such as ice cream, or playing some musical instruments.

Frenectomy

This straightforward procedure releases the frenulum. So, the tongue or the lip is no longer restricted and can move freely and with an increased range of motion. We can discuss anesthetic options for enhanced comfort. Since few nerve endings and blood vessels are present in this area, the risk of complications such as excessive bleeding is avoided. Our specialists have also invested in advanced technologies and training to further encourage healing and to minimize post-surgical complications.

There are many considerations associated with determining the best approach to frenulum-related abnormalities. For instance, the child’s age plays a role because some children “outgrow” this condition. Formerly tight bands can loosen up on their own. The child’s oral anatomy, tongue movement, and the impact on the condition on development and quality of life are also considered by our specialists before moving forward with treatment options. Still, other interventions include precisely excising very thick or large lingual frenulum and then “retraining” the tongue to move correctly with special exercises.

The first step to freedom from tongue-tie is an evaluation at ClearCare Periodontal & Implant Centre. Schedule an appointment at our Winnipeg, MB office by calling (204) 421-9236.