Frenectomy in Northfield, IL – Improve Oral Function with Expert Care at North Dental

At North Dental, we provide specialized surgical procedures like frenectomy to improve oral function and prevent future dental complications. A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves modifying or removing the frenulum, a small piece of tissue in the mouth that can sometimes restrict movement. This procedure can significantly enhance oral health, especially in patients who experience restricted tongue movement (tongue-tie) or lip-tie. Conveniently located in Northfield, IL, our practice serves the surrounding communities of Winnetka, Glenview, and Wilmette, offering personalized and expert care for frenectomy procedures.

Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or your child, Dr. Phillip Moorad and our team are here to provide gentle and effective solutions to enhance your oral function and comfort.

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that removes or alters a frenulum. The frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects parts of the mouth, such as the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the upper lip to the gums. There are two main types of frenectomies:

• Lingual Frenectomy: This procedure removes or releases the tissue under the tongue that connects it to the floor of the mouth. This is commonly referred to as treating a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). If the lingual frenulum is too tight, it can restrict tongue movement, leading to difficulty with speech, eating, or oral hygiene.
• Labial Frenectomy: This procedure removes or alters the frenulum that connects the upper lip to the gums. If this frenulum is too short or thick, it can create a gap between the upper front teeth (diastema) or interfere with oral hygiene, especially in orthodontic cases.

At North Dental, we use advanced techniques to perform frenectomies, ensuring that the procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and highly effective in improving oral function.

Why Is a Frenectomy Necessary?

A frenectomy is often necessary when the frenulum interferes with normal oral function or causes discomfort. Here are some common reasons why a frenectomy might be recommended:

• Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia): A tight or short lingual frenulum can restrict the tongue’s range of motion, affecting speech, eating, and breastfeeding in infants. This condition can also make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Lip-Tie: A tight or thick labial frenulum can cause gaps between the front teeth or make it difficult for children and adults to brush and floss properly. This condition can also interfere with orthodontic treatment and contribute to speech problems.
• Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, orthodontists recommend a labial frenectomy to allow teeth to move properly during braces or Invisalign treatment. By removing or modifying the frenulum, the gap between the upper teeth can close more easily.
• Speech and Eating Difficulties: Children and adults with tongue-tie may struggle with speech articulation, especially with sounds like “t,” “d,” “n,” and “l.” Eating may also become challenging, as restricted tongue movement can prevent effective chewing and swallowing.

By addressing these issues early with a frenectomy, patients can avoid complications that may arise from limited oral function. Dr. Phillip Moorad at North Dental will assess your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.

The Frenectomy Process at North Dental

At North Dental, we make sure that the frenectomy process is smooth, efficient, and comfortable for our patients. Here’s what you can expect when you undergo a frenectomy at our office:

1. Initial Consultation: During your consultation, Dr. Phillip Moorad will perform a thorough examination of your mouth to determine if a frenectomy is necessary. We will evaluate the size, thickness, and position of the frenulum and discuss how it may be affecting your oral function.
2. Preparation: If a frenectomy is recommended, Dr. Moorad will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. We may use local anesthesia to numb the area and ensure that you are comfortable throughout the process.
3. Frenulum Removal or Modification: Using advanced tools, Dr. Moorad will either trim or fully remove the frenulum, depending on the specific condition being treated. For tongue-ties, this involves releasing the tissue under the tongue to allow for greater mobility. For lip-ties, the frenulum connecting the upper lip to the gums is reduced or removed to prevent further complications.
4. Post-Procedure Care: After the frenectomy, we will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within a few days. Dr. Moorad may recommend gentle tongue exercises or follow-up visits to ensure optimal healing.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

A frenectomy can offer several benefits for patients experiencing restricted oral function or discomfort due to a tight frenulum. Some of the key benefits include:

• Improved Speech: Children and adults with tongue-tie often struggle with speech clarity. A frenectomy can release the tongue and improve speech articulation, making it easier to pronounce certain sounds.
• Enhanced Eating and Swallowing: For patients who have difficulty eating or swallowing due to tongue-tie, a frenectomy allows for better tongue movement, improving chewing and swallowing function.
• Prevention of Dental Issues: A tight frenulum can create gaps between the teeth or make oral hygiene challenging. By performing a labial frenectomy, we can help prevent issues like cavities, gum disease, and complications with orthodontic treatment.
• Better Breastfeeding: For infants with tongue-tie, a frenectomy can improve their ability to latch during breastfeeding, reducing feeding difficulties for both the baby and the mother.
• Simplified Orthodontic Treatment: If your orthodontist has recommended a frenectomy, removing the frenulum can make it easier for braces or Invisalign to close gaps between the front teeth and prevent future complications.

Recovery After a Frenectomy

Most patients experience a smooth and quick recovery after a frenectomy. Here are some tips for ensuring a fast and comfortable recovery:

• Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes for the first couple of days after the procedure to avoid irritation.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently brush your teeth and the area around the frenectomy site to keep your mouth clean and prevent infection. We may also recommend rinsing with a mild saltwater solution.
• Follow Post-Op Instructions: Dr. Moorad will provide specific aftercare instructions, including any recommended tongue exercises to improve mobility after the procedure.
• Monitor Healing: Most patients experience minimal swelling or discomfort after a frenectomy, and the site typically heals within one to two weeks. Dr. Moorad may schedule follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

Why Choose North Dental for Frenectomy?

At North Dental, we are dedicated to providing expert care for all of your dental needs, including specialized treatments like frenectomy. Here’s why patients in Northfield, Winnetka, Glenview, and Wilmette trust us for their frenectomy procedures:

• Experienced Team: Dr. Phillip Moorad and our dental team have extensive experience in performing frenectomy procedures, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care for optimal results.
• State-of-the-art technology: We use advanced tools and techniques to perform frenectomies, ensuring that the procedure is minimally invasive, precise, and effective.‍
• Comprehensive Care: From diagnosing tongue-tie or lip-tie to providing follow-up care, we offer comprehensive treatment plans to improve oral function and overall dental health.