Do you struggle with speech or oral hygiene problems due to an unusually tight or thick frenum? If so, a frenectomy could be the solution you've been searching for. Dr. Anthony P. Parrella, DMD, in Somerville, MA, is an expert at performing this procedure using state-of-the-art laser technology called “Precise”. This guide will explore what a frenectomy is, its causes, and its benefits, as well as provide insight into Dr. Parrella's innovative approach.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves the removal or alteration of a frenum, which is the connective tissue found between certain parts of your mouth. There are two main types of frena (the plural of frenum) that can be addressed through this procedure:
Lingual Frenum - Located under your tongue, connecting it to the floor of your mouth.
Labial Frenum - Found between your upper front teeth and your upper lip.
In some cases, these frena can be too thick or tight, causing various issues such as difficulty speaking or eating, orthodontic complications, and even gum recession. A frenectomy aims to alleviate these problems by either removing or reshaping the problematic frenum.
Causes of Frenum Issues
The primary cause of frenum issues is genetics. Some people are born with a thicker or tighter frenum than usual, which can lead to the aforementioned issues. In other cases, the frenum may be injured or develop irregularities due to trauma or inflammation. Regardless of the cause, a problematic frenum can significantly impact one's quality of life and oral health.
Benefits of Frenectomy
Undergoing a frenectomy can provide numerous benefits, including:
Improved oral hygiene - A tight frenum can make it difficult to properly clean your teeth and gums, leading to an increased risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.
Enhanced speech - A tight lingual frenum can interfere with proper tongue movement, causing speech impediments such as lisping.
Better orthodontic outcomes - A labial frenum that connects too closely to the front teeth can create a gap or prevent orthodontic treatment from being successful.
Reduced gum recession - A tight labial frenum can pull on the gums, causing them to recede and potentially leading to tooth loss.
Increased comfort - Both lingual and labial frena that are too tight can cause discomfort during everyday activities such as eating or speaking.
Dr. Anthony P. Parrella on Frenectomy Using the “Precise” Laser
At his Somerville practice, Dr. Parrella performs frenectomies using an advanced laser technology called Precise. This method offers several advantages compared to traditional surgical techniques:
Minimized pain and discomfort - The Precise laser cauterizes as it cuts, reducing bleeding and swelling during the procedure.
Faster healing - The laser's precision allows for minimal damage to surrounding tissue, which promotes quicker healing times.
Reduced risk of infection - The laser sterilizes the treatment area as it works, lowering the chance of post-operative infection.
No sutures required - Because the laser seals blood vessels as it cuts, there is no need for sutures following the procedure.
What's the Procedure?
Before undergoing a frenectomy, Dr. Parrella will perform a thorough examination to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. If a frenectomy is deemed necessary, he will explain the process and answer any questions you may have. The actual procedure generally involves the following steps:
Anesthesia - To ensure you remain comfortable throughout the treatment, a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area around the frenum.
Laser Treatment - Dr. Parrella will use the Precise laser to carefully remove or reshape the problematic frenum. This typically takes only a few minutes.
Post-Operative Care - After the procedure, Dr. Parrella will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth as it heals and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.
If you suspect you or your child may have a problematic frenum and could benefit from a frenectomy, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Anthony P. Parrella's office in Somerville at (617) 625-3022 or visit his website to schedule an appointment. His expertise and use of advanced laser technology can help improve your oral health and enhance your smile in ways you never thought possible.