Frenectomy Surgery
Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery | Orland Park
Frenulum-related issues like tongue-tie and lip-tie can have a significant impact on oral health, speech, and eating habits. At Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Orland Park, Dr. Abdulkader Ghadiali provides expert frenectomy surgery to relieve discomfort, enhance functionality, and improve your overall oral well-being.
This page explores the details of frenectomy surgery, from addressing tongue-tie and lip-tie to understanding the process and benefits of this procedure.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or alters the frenulum, which is a thin fold of tissue in the mouth. The two main types of frenulum folds are located between the upper lip and two front teeth (labial frenulum) and beneath the tongue (lingual frenulum).
When the frenulum is too short, thick, or tight, it can lead to issues such as:
- Difficulty in speech or eating
- Misaligned teeth
- Problems wearing dentures
- Oral hygiene challenges
The two primary types of frenectomy surgeries—labial frenectomy and lingual frenectomy—address these issues effectively.
Labial Frenectomy
What is a Labial Frenectomy?
The labial frenulum connects the upper lip to the gum between the two front teeth. When it is overly tight or thick, it can interfere with the alignment of teeth, create excessive spacing, or even hinder denture fitting in some cases.
Who Needs a Labial Frenectomy?
- Orthodontic Treatment: A labial frenectomy may be necessary during orthodontic treatment to remove tissue preventing proper tooth alignment.
- Denture Wearers: Individuals with a prominent labial frenulum may find their dentures fit poorly or are prone to slipping. Removing the frenulum can significantly improve fit and retention, allowing dentures to function more effectively.
This quick procedure ensures better dental health and comfort for those needing orthodontic or restorative care.
Lingual Frenectomy
Understanding Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia)
A lingual frenectomy targets the frenulum located beneath the tongue. When this frenulum is too short or tight, it causes a condition known as tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). This restricts the tongue's ability to move freely, affecting essential functions such as eating, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene.
Why is a Lingual Frenectomy Necessary?
Tongue-tie can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Speech Issues: Restricted tongue mobility can cause difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Eating Challenges: Limited tongue movement may make chewing or swallowing more difficult.
- Oral Hygiene Problems: A tongue that can’t move adequately may prevent proper cleaning, increasing the risk of dental hygiene concerns.
Following a lingual frenectomy, patients often experience dramatic improvements in tongue mobility, speech clarity, and overall comfort.
The Frenectomy Procedure
Dr. Abdulkader Ghadiali ensures a seamless experience for every frenectomy procedure at Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Here’s what to expect during the process:
Precision Techniques: A frenectomy is a straightforward procedure where the frenulum is either removed or contoured. This can be done using traditional scalpels or advanced laser technology for precision and minimal discomfort.
Anesthesia Options: Our patients’ comfort is a priority. Frenectomy surgery is performed using either local anesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation, depending on the patient’s preference and the complexity of the procedure.
Quick Recovery: The procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive. Most patients return to their regular activities with improved functionality and comfort shortly after surgery.
Benefits of Frenectomy Surgery
If tongue-tie or lip-tie is causing oral health issues, a frenectomy can provide lasting relief and significant improvements, including:
- Enhanced Speech: Break free from speech impediments caused by restricted tongue movement.
- Easier Eating: Enjoy the ability to chew and swallow without difficulty.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Gain better access for cleaning your teeth and tongue for healthier oral habits.
- Orthodontic Support: Fix spacing or alignment issues for optimal orthodontic results.
- Better Fit for Dentures: Ensure secure and comfortable denture placement for long-term use.
Taking action early can prevent future complications and improve quality of life for individuals affected by frenulum issues.
Why Choose Dr. Abdulkader Ghadiali in Orland Park?
At Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Abdulkader Ghadiali combines advanced technology with personalized care to deliver precise results for every patient. With years of expertise in frenectomy surgery, Dr. Ghadiali offers solutions tailored to your unique oral health needs, ensuring a positive and stress-free surgical experience.
Take the First Step Toward Better Oral Health
Don’t wait to address the challenges caused by tongue-tie or lip-tie. A frenectomy can make all the difference in improving speech, eating, and overall oral hygiene.
Contact Premier Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Orland Park today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Abdulkader Ghadiali. Together, we can help you achieve the healthy, functional smile you deserve.