What Is Frenotomy and How Is It Performed?

The lingual frenulum is a small binding tissue that connects your tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some cases, the lingual frenulum is too short and has to be modified. 

Frenotomy, also known as a frenectomy, is a quick and simple procedure during which the lingual frenulum is cut. It is quite a standard procedure, especially among infants. 

At Tots N Teens Pediatrics, our professionals can make the procedure comfortable for the children and quick, making sure that their oral functionality is restored. Keep reading to find out just how frenotomy works.

What Is Lingual Frenotomy?

The lingual frenulum connects the tongue to the floor of your mouth, and its length varies from person to person. In some instances, the frenulum can restrict the movement of the tongue and cause breastfeeding or other issues. 

This condition is called ankyloglossia or ‘tongue-tie.’ To restore tongue movement, the frenulum is cut to free up tongue movement during a procedure known as lingual frenotomy.

How Is Frenotomy Performed?

Lingual frenotomy is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure. After the consultation, the patient is asked to lie face up, and their tongue is secured to the roof of the mouth using a tongue elevator or fingers. 

Then, the frenum is snipped in one clean cut. The entire procedure takes about 20 minutes. In most cases, anesthesia is not necessary. 

The only aftercare you have to focus on after a frenotomy is to keep the area clean. Refraining from ingesting certain foods for a few days after the procedure may be recommended to avoid food getting stuck under the tongue and leading to infection. 

Frenotomy In Children 

Tongue-tie is common among infants and can be performed easily without any risk or complications.

In most cases, having an irregular frenum can interfere with breastfeeding and may lead to weight loss.  Children who suffer from ankyloglossia may also experience difficulties when eating and talking. 

Frenotomy is available at all our three Tots N Teens Pediatrics locations in Texas; Mesquite, Forney, and Plano. If you want to know more about the procedure and schedule a consultation with our experts, don’t hesitate to contact us!