Frenectomies

At Smile Hilliard, advanced technology plays an important role in delivering comfortable, precise care. Dr. Rachel Sanyk uses modern tools like a soft tissue laser to perform procedures such as frenectomies right here in our Hilliard office. This allows patients of all ages to receive efficient treatment in a familiar, supportive environment.

A frenectomy is a simple procedure that can have a meaningful impact on oral health, function, and development. Whether performed for infants, children, or adults, this treatment is designed to improve mobility and reduce complications caused by an abnormal frenulum.

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor oral surgery procedure that removes or releases a tight or restrictive frenulum, which is a small bundle of tissue strings in the mouth. When this tissue is too thick, too short, or positioned in a way that limits movement, it can interfere with normal function.

By gently adjusting this tissue, a frenectomy helps restore proper range of motion for the lips or tongue. This can improve everyday functions such as speaking, eating, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Dr. Sanyk evaluates each patient carefully to determine when a frenectomy is the most appropriate solution.

Understanding the Frenulum

A frenulum or frenum is a natural band of tissue that connects different parts of the mouth. While everyone has these structures, their size and flexibility can vary.

There are two primary types of frenula:

Labial frenum: Connects the upper lip or lower lip to the gums near the front teeth
Lingual frenulum: Connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth

When these tissues are too restrictive, they can limit the movement of the tongue or lips, which may affect both function and development. They can also cause stress of the tissue nearest the teeth which can lead to tissue loss, or recession.

Lip Tie and Tongue Tie Explained

When the frenulum is unusually tight or thick, it is often referred to as a lip tie or tongue tie. These conditions can affect patients at different stages of life.

A tongue tie (also known as ankyloglossia) can restrict tongue movement, making it more difficult to speak clearly, chew properly, or maintain effective oral hygiene. A lip tie can impact how the upper lip moves and may contribute to spacing concerns or gum issues.

These conditions are commonly identified in:

Newborns and infants, where feeding or nursing may be affected
Older children, where speech development or dental alignment may be impacted
Adults, where long-term restrictions may contribute to gum recession or difficulty maintaining oral health

Dr. Sanyk works closely with patients and, when appropriate, other healthcare providers such as a pediatrician or lactation consultant to determine the best course of care.

How Frenectomies Support Development and Oral Health

A properly functioning frenulum plays an important role in daily activities. When it becomes restrictive, it can lead to a range of concerns that affect both comfort and long-term dental development.

For children, a frenectomy may help address challenges such as feeding difficulties, speech concerns, or shifting of the front teeth. Improving mobility early can support more natural development as they grow.

For both children and adults, releasing a restrictive frenulum can:

Improve the ability to clean around the gums and teeth
Reduce the risk of gum recession
Support better alignment and spacing of teeth
Improve comfort during speaking and eating

By addressing the issue early, patients can avoid complications that may develop over time.

What to Expect During a Frenectomy Procedure

The process often begins during a routine cleaning and exam visit at Smile Hilliard. During this visit, our team will evaluate the affected area, discuss symptoms, and determine whether treatment is recommended.

If a frenectomy is appropriate, the procedure itself is typically quick and straightforward. A local anesthetic is used to keep you comfortable, and a frenectomy is performed using advanced laser technology.

The laser allows for a precise adjustment of the tissue with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. Because the procedure is so controlled, it is completed in a single visit.

Dr. Sanyk and the Smile Hilliard team take time to ensure patients feel informed and at ease throughout the entire process.

Benefits of Laser Frenectomy

Using a soft tissue laser offers several advantages compared to traditional techniques that relied on a scalpel, stitches, or sutures.

Patients often benefit from:

A more comfortable experience with less soreness
Reduced bleeding during the procedure
Lower risk of infection
Faster healing and minimal downtime
Greater precision when treating delicate tissue

These benefits make laser frenectomy a preferred approach for patients of all ages, including newborns and young children.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after a frenectomy is typically simple, especially when performed with a laser. Most patients experience only mild sensitivity in the treated area.

To support healing, patients are encouraged to:

Maintain good oral hygiene while being gentle around the site
Avoid irritants such as alcohol-based products
Follow any specific care instructions provided by the dental team

Healing usually progresses quickly, allowing patients to return to normal routines and normal activities without significant interruption. Dr. Sanyk provides clear aftercare guidance so you feel confident during the healing process.

A Personalized Approach to Frenectomies in Hilliard

Every patient’s needs are unique, especially when it comes to procedures that affect function and development. At Smile Hilliard, treatment is always approached with careful consideration of your goals, symptoms, and overall oral health.

The Smile Hilliard team takes time to listen, evaluate, and guide you through your options so you can make informed decisions about your care. Whether treatment is recommended for a child or an adult, the focus remains on long-term comfort, function, and confidence.

Frenectomy Treatment in Hilliard, Ohio

If you or your child may have a lip tie or tongue tie, or if you have concerns about limited mobility in the mouth, a frenectomy may be a helpful solution. This simple surgical procedure can improve function, support development, and enhance overall oral health.

Dr. Sanyk and the team at Smile Hilliard are here to help you understand your options and provide care in a comfortable, supportive environment.

We are committed to the best dental solutions for you and your family. Life is complicated. Dentistry doesn’t have to be!

At our office in Hilliard, Ohio, Dr. Rachel Sanyk and the Smile Hilliard team are fully committed to providing our patients with the very best in general dentistry with comprehensive preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and therapeutic services.