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Frenectomy

Frenectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure performed to loosen or remove overly large, tight, or poorly positioned band (s) of tissue that are present inside the mouth, connected to the lip, cheeks or floor of the mouth (frenum) - a condition commonly referred to as being "tongue-tied" or "ankyloglossia" - which can cause speech impediments and difficulties with chewing, swallowing and other aspects of oral function.  In infants, this condition can impair feeding, and for some older children, teens and adults, cause daily discomfort/pain and lead to mouth breathing.  Frenum release is a quick procedure, generally taking less than 45 minutes.  

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Before

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After

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Before

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After

Additional Frenectomy Resources

  • 1st Visit
    Please arrive 10 - 15 minutes prior to appointment time to fill out necessary forms. Your child will be escorted to our examination area by one of our friendly assistants. Parents/Guardians will remain in our reception area during the appointment. (A viewing window is available.) Your child’s first visit generally consists of a dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, necessary x-rays and an examination. When your child’s examination is complete, Dr. Lunken will invite you into the consultation room to review your child’s x-rays and the examination results. She will discuss nutrition and propose any necessary treatment, along with answering your questions. Please allow 45 minutes for your first visit. After the visit, your child will show you around the office.
  • Under 2
    At our office, we believe that the key to good dental health is prevention that begins when a child is young. We’re happy to see young toddlers, and we encourage visits in our office to help educate parents and to help children become comfortable with dental visits. A complimentary “Well baby” dental exam is done in our consultation room. Dr. Lunken will perform a Lap to Lap exam with the parents/guardians. If there are x-rays needed and/or a more thorough exam, charges will apply.
  • Keeping Your Child Safe
    Managing a child’s behavior is an important part of every dental visit. Behavior management methods at our office are directed toward the goals of communication, education, and the safe delivery of care. Children who are unable to cooperate due to lack of maturity or mental/physical handicap pose a risk to themselves and our staff during dental treatment. The stabilization of the patient can be achieved by the use of hand holding and other gentle restraint. This allow the dental care to proceed without injury to the child and/or dental staff. Potential Benefits: The reduction of unsafe movement, protection of the staff and child from injury, and primarily facilitates the safe deliver of dental treatment. Dr. Dina Lunken or any team member will be happy to answer any of your questions or address any of your concerns.
  • Routine Cleanings
    We recommend cleanings every 6 months. These visits include a cleaning, exam from Dr. Lunken and a fluoride treatment. X-rays will be taken once per year. If there is a risk factor for cavities, x-rays will then be taken every 6 months. With all the different insurances we accept, we ask that you contact your insurance company to be aware of what your coverage benefits include.

Frenectomy Exercises - 3 years and older 

Frenectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure performed to loosen or remove overly large, tight, or poorly positioned band (s) of tissue that are present inside the mouth, connected to the lip, cheeks or floor of the mouth (frenum) - a condition commonly referred to as being "tongue-tied" or "ankyloglossia" - which can cause speech impediments and difficulties with chewing, swallowing and other aspects of oral function.  In infants, this condition can impair feeding, and for some older children, teens and adults, cause daily discomfort/pain and lead to mouth breathing.  Frenum release is a quick procedure, generally taking less than 45 minutes.

Frenectomy - Pre-OP

Cave Bounce

Tongue Push-ups

Jaw Rotation 

Bite Block Pop 

Frenectomy - Post OP

Days 1-7

Waggle Spot

Waggle Flap

Tongue Pops

Snake

Neck Stretch

Spoon/Fork Tickle

Frenectomy - Post OP

Days 8-14

Jawbreaker

Caves

Pencil Pull

Peanut Butter Rub

Tongue Depressor Push -Up

Tongue Point and Trace

And always remember: 
KEEP THE TONGUE MOVING

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