Why Choose Laser Therapy For Frenectomy?

By Author: Riverplace Periodontics
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Introduction
A frenectomy is a common dental procedure that involves removing or reshaping the frenum — a small fold of tissue that connects the lips, tongue, or cheeks to the gums. While some frena are normal, others can be too tight, thick, or incorrectly attached, leading to problems such as difficulty breastfeeding, speech challenges, gum recession, or spacing between teeth. Traditionally performed with a scalpel, this procedure can now be carried out using frenectomy laser therapy, a modern approach that offers greater precision, minimal bleeding, faster healing, and improved comfort for patients of all ages..

1. Trouble with speech development in children.

2. Persistent spacing between the upper front teeth.

3. Gum recession caused by tissue pulling on the gums.

For years, frenectomies were performed with scalpels or surgical scissors. While effective, these methods often involved bleeding, sutures, and longer healing times. Today, many dental professionals recommend laser therapy as a safer, gentler, and more advanced option.
Why Laser Therapy Stands ...
... Out

1. Comfortable and Nearly Pain-Free
Laser energy precisely targets the frenum, gently separating the tissue while minimizing trauma. Many patients, especially children, report little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.

2. Quick and Efficient
Most laser frenectomies take only a few minutes. Infants undergoing treatment for tongue-tie often show an immediate improvement in breastfeeding.

3. Minimal Bleeding
Unlike scalpels, lasers seal blood vessels as they cut. This means less bleeding during the procedure and less mess for both patients and caregivers.

4. No Stitches, Faster Healing
Because the laser creates clean, precise incisions and stimulates natural healing, sutures are rarely needed. Patients usually heal within 7–10 days, often faster than with traditional surgery.

5. Lower Risk of Infection
Lasers sterilize the tissue as they work, creating an environment that discourages infection and promotes smooth recovery.

6. Safe for All Ages
From infants with tongue-tie to adults with orthodontic or periodontal concerns, laser frenectomy is a safe, minimally invasive option suitable for all age groups.

Common Reasons for Choosing a Laser Frenectomy

1. Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia): Restricted tongue movement that affects feeding, swallowing, or speech.

2. Lip-Tie: A tight frenum that prevents proper latching in babies or creates spacing between front teeth.

3. Orthodontic Needs: When the frenum prevents complete closure of a midline gap.

4. Gum Recession: A frenum pulling on the gums, increasing the risk of periodontal problems.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Evaluation: The dentist examines the frenum and explains whether a frenectomy is needed.

2. Anesthesia: In most cases, a small amount of local or topical anesthesia is used; sometimes none is needed for infants.

3 Laser Release: The frenum is gently released using the dental laser — usually in just a few minutes.

4. Immediate Results: Tongue or lip mobility is checked right away. For infants, breastfeeding can often resume immediately after the procedure.

5. Aftercare Guidance: Patients receive simple instructions on oral hygiene, diet, and exercises (if tongue mobility needs improvement).

6. Post-Treatment Recovery
Discomfort: Minimal; most patients only experience mild soreness.

7. Diet: Soft foods for the first 24–48 hours are recommended.

8. Oral Exercises: For tongue-tie cases, stretching or speech exercises may be advised to prevent tissue reattachment.

9. Healing Time: Typically 1–2 weeks, often shorter with laser therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is laser frenectomy painful?
Most patients feel little to no pain. Any discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.

Q2: How long does the procedure take?
The treatment itself often takes only a few minutes.

Q3: Is it safe for babies?
Yes. Laser frenectomy is widely used in infants to improve breastfeeding and is considered safe when performed by trained professionals.
Q4: Will I need stitches?
In most cases, no stitches are required after a laser frenectomy.

Q5: How soon can normal activities resume?
Almost immediately — most patients return to normal eating and talking within hours.

Conclusion
Choosing laser therapy for frenectomy means choosing a modern, patient-centered approach to oral care. With benefits like less pain, faster healing, minimal bleeding, and reduced risk of infection, it has become the preferred method for both children and adults. Whether the goal is to improve breastfeeding in infants, enhance speech in children, or support orthodontic and periodontal health in adults, laser frenectomy provides safe, efficient, and lasting results. At Riverplace Periodontics, our team is committed to delivering this advanced treatment with precision and compassionate care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for every patient.

For more information visit: https://www.riverplaceperiodontics.com/frenectomy/