We’ve all experienced situations where our words didn’t come out like we wanted or we mispronounced a common word. Often, this is called being “tongue-tied.” However, in some people, being tongue-tied can be caused by a common medical condition involving something called the “lingual frenum.” If you lift up your tongue, you’ll see a strip of prominent tissue that connects the bottom of your tongue to the floor of your mouth. This connective tissue is called the lingual frenum. You have several different frenum in your mouth. One is at the center of your upper lip, and the other is at the center of your bottom lip.
If any of these frena (the plural form of frenum) are too large or extend too far, it can cause various linguistic and aesthetic issues for our patients. In these cases, we perform a fast and simple procedure called a frenectomy. Monrovia patients can get almost instant relief from their oversized frena with this type of procedure. If you are tongue-tied and want to finally release your tongue to its full potential, or if one of your children has oversized frena, then make sure you call Dr. Q today at (626) 599-9819.
Dr. Q is one of the leading dentists in the Monrovia area and is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the most gentle, compassionate, and attentive doctors in the state. Dr. Q has built her practice from day one on the idea of listening to her patients and providing the delicate and precise care that patients love. On top of that, she is also on the cutting edge of dental science when it comes to the technology and techniques that she can perform. Our offices include some of the most advanced dental lasers available so that we can provide the kind of world-class service that you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
What Are Frenum?
In the medical profession, we refer to frenum as any kind of connective tissue that attaches to an organ to hold it in place. It’s sort of like an anchor. In the mouth, you have two frena:
- Lingual Frenum – This is the connective tissue that holds your tongue to the base of your mouth.
- Labial Frenum – This connective tissue connects your upper and lower lip to your gums. It is usually near the base of your middle two teeth.
In some Monrovia patients, the lingual or labial frenum can be too large or too long. This can cause gum recession, speech impediments, and can also disrupt proper airway and jaw development.
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What Is a Frenectomy?
Monrovia patients whose labial frenum or lingual frenum is too large can get fast and easy relief with a frenectomy. The procedure is almost always performed at an outpatient surgery center, and it is often done with just a local anesthetic. The procedure simply involves “snipping” the frenum or removing it entirely. Depending on the severity of the case, some sutures may be needed.
Frenectomy with Solea CO2 Laser
Many surgeons use a scalpel or surgical scissors to make the incision. However, Dr. Q uses the Solea CO2 laser for several reasons:
- It is gentler than a scalpel.
- It reduces bleeding.
- It reduces tissue damage.
- Allows for faster healing.
- Reduces postoperative pain.
The Solea CO2 laser is truly a remarkable instrument that our patients absolutely love. The laser uses a series of pulses to gently remove the frenum.
What Problems Can Be Solved with a Frenectomy?
Monrovia patients that suffer from overly large lingual frenum or labial frenum can experience several issues.
- Linguistic – When the lingual frenum under the tongue stretches too far towards the front of the tongue, it can restrict the movement of the tongue. This can cause speaking difficulties and in children can hinder their speech development.
- Gum recession – With an oversized labial frenum, there can be some problems with the gums receding because the frenum is so large.
- Mouth breathing – When the labial frenum is too large, it can prevent the lips from closing.
How to Get Started with Your Frenectomy
Whether you’re calling about your own frenectomy or if you’re calling for your child or relative, we are always happy to hear from our new patients. When you call, you’ll get to talk with one of our friendly and brilliant staff members who can speak with you about your questions and concerns.
But the next step is to schedule a time for you to come in and meet with Dr. Q in person. This will allow her to learn more about your goals for the procedure and perform an examination. From there, Dr. Q will make her recommendation, and we can move forward from there.
Contact our office in the Monrovia area at (626) 599-9819 to get started!
