A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases a frenulum, the small band of tissue that connects the lips, tongue, or cheeks to the gums or floor of the mouth. It is commonly performed to treat tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), lip-tie, orthodontic concerns such as a gap between the front teeth, gum recession, or problems with denture stability. Modern frenectomies are often performed using a laser, making the procedure quick, minimally invasive, and associated with faster healing.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenulum is a normal piece of soft tissue found in several areas of the mouth.
The most common oral frenula include:
- The lingual frenulum, which connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
- The upper labial frenulum, which connects the upper lip to the gums.
- The lower labial frenulum, which connects the lower lip to the gums.
- The buccal frenulum, which connects the cheeks to the gums.
When one of these tissues is unusually tight, thick, or restricts normal movement, a frenectomy may be recommended.
Frenectomy vs. Frenotomy: What’s the Difference?
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they describe different procedures.
| Frenectomy | Frenotomy |
| Removes or releases most or all of the restrictive frenulum | Makes a small incision to loosen the frenulum |
| Often recommended for more significant restrictions | Commonly performed for simple tongue-tie in newborns |
| May use a laser, scalpel, or electrosurgery | Usually a quick snip using sterile scissors or a scalpel |
| Sometimes requires local anaesthesia | In newborns, little or no anaesthesia may be needed |
A third procedure, called frenuloplasty, not only releases the tissue but also reconstructs it, making it suitable for more complex cases.
Types of Frenectomy
Labial Frenectomy (Upper Lip)
A labial frenectomy removes or releases the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums.
It may be recommended for:
- A large gap between the upper front teeth (diastema).
- Orthodontic treatment.
- Gum recession caused by a tight frenulum.
- Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene.
Lingual Frenectomy (Tongue)
A lingual frenectomy treats tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) by releasing the lingual frenulum.
This procedure may improve:
- Breastfeeding.
- Tongue mobility.
- Speech development.
- Oral function.
Buccal Frenectomy (Cheek)
A buccal frenectomy involves the tissue connecting the cheek to the gums.
This is the least common type and is usually performed when the frenulum interferes with dentures, orthodontic treatment, or periodontal health.
Why Would Someone Need a Frenectomy?
The reasons vary depending on the person’s age.
In Babies and Children
A frenectomy may be recommended when a tongue-tie or lip-tie causes:
- Poor latch during breastfeeding.
- Clicking sounds while feeding.
- Feeding fatigue.
- Poor weight gain.
- Maternal nipple pain.
- Restricted tongue movement.
- Speech concerns as the child grows.
Many babies can breastfeed immediately after the procedure.
In Adults
Adults may benefit from a frenectomy for several reasons.
These include:
- Closing or preventing the return of a gap between the front teeth.
- Managing gum recession caused by a tight frenulum.
- Improving denture stability.
- Addressing speech articulation difficulties.
- Supporting orthodontic treatment.
- Improving periodontal health.
Without releasing a tight labial frenulum, a gap closed with braces or clear aligners may reopen over time.
How Is a Frenectomy Performed?
A frenectomy is usually completed during a single outpatient visit.
The procedure generally takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the location and complexity.
Traditional Scalpel Method
The dentist uses a scalpel to remove or release the restrictive tissue.
This method may require:
- Local anaesthesia.
- Stitches.
- Slightly longer healing time.
Laser Frenectomy
Laser frenectomy has become increasingly popular because it offers several advantages.
The laser:
- Precisely removes soft tissue.
- Seals blood vessels during treatment.
- Reduces bleeding.
- Often eliminates the need for stitches.
- Shortens recovery time.
Electrosurgery
Some specialists use electrosurgery, which uses controlled electrical energy to cut soft tissue while minimizing bleeding.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Although the exact process varies, a typical frenectomy includes:
- Examination of the affected frenulum.
- Local anaesthesia if appropriate.
- Release or removal of the restrictive tissue.
- Instructions for aftercare.
- Follow-up appointment if needed.
For infants with tongue-tie, the procedure is usually much shorter and babies are often encouraged to feed immediately afterward.
Frenectomy Recovery and Healing Time
Most people recover quickly.
Soft tissue healing generally occurs within 7 to 10 days, although complete tissue remodeling may continue for several weeks.
Laser procedures often heal faster than traditional scalpel surgery.
Aftercare Instructions
Your dentist may recommend:
- Eating soft foods for several days.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding spicy or very hot foods.
- Applying cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours if swelling occurs.
- Keeping the area clean.
Adults should also avoid smoking and alcohol while healing.
Post-Procedure Stretching Exercises
One of the most important parts of recovery is completing the stretching exercises recommended by your dentist.
These exercises help:
- Maintain tongue or lip mobility.
- Prevent tissue reattachment.
- Improve long-term results.
Depending on the procedure, stretches may be recommended several times each day for two to six weeks.
Risks and Possible Complications
Frenectomy is considered a safe procedure, but like any surgery, there are potential risks.
These include:
- Mild bleeding.
- Swelling.
- Temporary discomfort.
- Infection.
- Scar tissue formation.
- Rare nerve sensitivity.
- Tissue reattachment if aftercare instructions are not followed.
Following your dentist’s aftercare recommendations helps reduce these risks.
Who Performs a Frenectomy?
Depending on the patient’s age and condition, a frenectomy may be performed by:
- Pediatric dentists.
- General dentists.
- Periodontists.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
- ENT specialists.
For infants with breastfeeding difficulties, treatment often involves collaboration between a pediatric dentist, ENT specialist, and an IBCLC-certified lactation consultant.
Frenectomy Cost in Dubai
The cost of a frenectomy depends on several factors, including:
- The type of frenectomy.
- Laser versus traditional technique.
- Patient age.
- Whether sedation is required.
In Dubai, laser frenectomy procedures commonly start from around AED 3,000, although fees vary between clinics and according to case complexity.
Because costs differ, it is best to request a personalized treatment estimate after an examination.
Choosing a Specialist in Dubai
When selecting a provider, look for:
- DHA or MOHAP licensed clinicians.
- Experience treating infants, children, or adults with your specific condition.
- Access to laser technology if appropriate.
- Clear explanations of treatment options.
- Comprehensive follow-up care.
A multidisciplinary approach involving pediatric dentists, ENT specialists, orthodontists, or periodontists may be recommended depending on your needs.
Dr. Enas Alkhadra sees patients at her Jumeirah 3 and Jumeirah Park clinics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a frenectomy painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort. Local anaesthesia is typically used for older children and adults, while newborn tongue-tie procedures are often completed very quickly with minimal discomfort.
How long does a frenectomy take?
Most procedures take between 15 and 30 minutes, while newborn frenotomy procedures are often completed in just a few minutes.
Is laser frenectomy better than the traditional method?
Laser frenectomy offers several advantages, including less bleeding, fewer stitches, and faster healing. However, the best approach depends on your specific condition and your clinician’s recommendation.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing usually occurs within 7 to 10 days, although complete tissue healing may continue for several weeks.
Can the tissue grow back?
The frenulum itself does not grow back, but the tissue can reattach if proper stretching exercises are not performed during healing.
Will insurance cover a frenectomy in Dubai?
Coverage depends on your insurance provider and whether the procedure is considered medically necessary. It is advisable to confirm benefits before treatment.