Frenectomy
What is a frenectomy?
A frenectomy is the surgical removal of the fibrous attachment that is between the gums and the upper and/or lower lip, which is called the frenem. Board-certified periodontist, Dr. Donald Steinberg, surgically removes this tissue and sutures it closed. Depending on the needs of the individual, a frenectomy may be performed either the upper or lower lips, or both, in order to ensure proper tooth position.
Why is a frenectomy necessary or helpful?
A frenectomy may need to be completed in order to make room for other cosmetic procedures, such as braces, or crown lengthening (when excess gum tissue is removed). Frenectomies may be performed on patients of any age.
Is a frenectomy painful?
Because a frenectomy is a surgical procedure, DFW Implant Team provides sedation dentistry in order to offer our patients a comfortable and stress-free experience. If you are planning to receive a frenectomy and have questions about the sedation dentistry options available, please contact our office.
How is a frenectomy procedure performed?
A frenectomy usually requires two appointments at our Bedford, TX, office. At your first appointment and consultation, Dr. Steinberg will complete an oral examination of your mouth and gums, review your medications, gather your health history, and discuss scheduling the procedure. The second appointment is the frenectomy procedure. This minor procedure will be performed in our state-of-the-art facility and only after any sedation dentistry has been administered and taken full effect, if necessary. The soft tissue will be excised and then the surgical area closed with a suture. Dr. Donald Steinberg will then provide aftercare instructions, which should be followed closely in order to ensure proper healing.
What is the aftercare for a frenectomy?
After a frenectomy procedure is performed, please follow any and all post-surgical instructions in order for the mouth to heal properly. Our staff at DFW Implant Tea, will schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Steinberg a week after the procedure, and then again after 3 weeks to see how the incision site has healed. Again, in recovery at home, please make sure to follow all of the aftercare instructions to avoid complications like infection, excessive bleeding, pain, inflammation, and more. If you have any questions about how to care for your mouth after the frenectomy, or if you are experiencing excessive bleeding, infection, or fever please call our office right away.