Functional Frenuloplasty
At Oasis Family Dental Centre, we offer oral frenuloplasty/frenectomy procedures to correct restrictive oral tissues for conditions commonly known as “tongue ties” or “lip ties”. We do require patients to attend myofunctional therapy sessions prior to the surgery, as well as after the surgery to ensure optimal results.
What is a Functional Frenuloplasty?
This is a small surgical procedure that is performed to remove or loosen restrictive tissues, known as frenum, that might prevent your tongue or lips from moving properly when speaking, chewing, or other simple functions.
There are two main types of oral frenectomies that are performed in our office: labial and lingual.
- Labial Frenectomy: Involves removing or modifying the connective tissue between the upper lip and upper teeth/gums. This procedure is commonly known to correct “lip ties”.
- Lingual Frenectomy: Involves releasing the tight band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This procedure is commonly known to correct “tongue ties”.
What is involved during the frenuloplasty procedure?
Prior to scheduling your surgical date, you will meet with Dr. Syed for a consultation appointment.
At the start of your oral frenuloplasty appointment, local anesthetic may be applied to ensure minimal discomfort to the patient. It is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in-office under 60 minutes to release the frenum using specialized sterile tools.
Patients should expect some mild swelling, pain, and/or discomfort as a normal process of wound healing. Pain can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medications, and other symptoms usually self-resolve over the course of 1-2 weeks with proper rest and myofunctional therapy.
Will this be covered through my insurance?
Although this procedure has been around for a long time, insurance companies are only starting to just recognize it under many coverage plans. Certain plans may cover your frenuloplasty/frenectomy to a varying degree, however as with all dental treatment, we do recommend contacting your insurer to verify rates of coverage. In the meantime, our administrative team is also happy to assist you in sending any pre-authorizations and providing you with cost breakdowns.