A Frenectomy is a simple, effective procedure that releases restrictive tissue in the mouth to support proper speech, oral development, and function. Dr. Mahmood provides expert Frenectomy care at Parkway Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center in Houston.
A Frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases the frenum, a small band of tissue that connects the upper or lower lip or tongue to the surrounding structures of the mouth. When this tissue is too tight, too thick, or attached too far down, it can restrict normal movement and interfere with speech, oral hygiene, dental development, and quality of life.
An upper lip Frenectomy may be recommended when the tissue between the upper lip and gum is pulling too tightly, creating a gap between the two central upper front teeth, making it difficult to brush effectively along the gumline, or causing discomfort with normal lip movement. A lingual frenectomy for tongue restriction may be considered for patients who are experiencing significant difficulty with speech and have been referred by a speech pathologist or their dentist. Dr. Mahmood evaluates each patient individually to determine whether a Frenectomy is appropriate and will work closely with your referring provider to coordinate care.
Your consultation will begin with a thorough evaluation of the frenum and surrounding oral structures. Dr. Mahmood will review your dental and medical history, assess the degree of restriction, and discuss whether a Frenectomy is the right approach. If you have been referred by a speech pathologist, pediatrician, or orthodontist, Dr. Mahmood will coordinate with their care team to ensure the timing and approach align with your broader treatment plan. You will receive clear pre-procedure instructions before the appointment so you know exactly what to expect.
A Frenectomy is an in-office procedure performed under Local Anesthesia with or without Sedation. Dr. Mahmood uses a precise surgical technique to release the restrictive tissue efficiently and safely. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes, and most patients tolerate it very well. The stitches are usually dissolving and will come out on their own in 10-14 days.
Recovery from a Frenectomy is generally straightforward. Some mild soreness, swelling, and tenderness around the treatment site are normal in the first few days. Your child will receive detailed post-operative instructions covering wound care, diet, and activity guidelines to support smooth healing. If your child is working with a speech pathologist, it is important to continue therapy after the procedure, as exercises and practice play a key role in achieving the best functional outcomes. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to confirm healing is on track.
An upper lip frenectomy releases the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum, which can cause a gap between the front teeth, restrict lip movement, or make oral hygiene difficult. A tongue tie release, or lingual frenectomy, addresses tissue beneath the tongue that limits its range of motion.
Signs that you may benefit from an upper lip frenectomy include a noticeable gap between the upper front teeth, difficulty cleaning along the gumline, or a tight upper lip that limits normal movement. For tongue restriction, the most common indicators are difficulty with certain speech sounds and a referral or recommendation from your speech pathologist or pediatrician. The best way to determine whether a Frenectomy is appropriate is to schedule a consultation so Dr. Mahmood can evaluate you.
The procedure is performed under Local Anesthesia with or without Sedation, so you should not feel pain during the surgery itself. Some soreness and mild swelling in the days following the procedure are normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication as directed. Most patients recover quickly and comfortably, and Dr. Mahmood and our team will make sure you feel supported and at ease throughout the entire experience.
Most patients recover within a week following a Frenectomy. Mild tenderness, swelling, and sensitivity at the treatment site are normal during the first few days. Your need to follow a soft food diet and avoid activities that could irritate the area while healing. Dr. Mahmood will provide detailed post-operative instructions and schedule a follow-up visit to confirm the site is healing properly.
An upper lip frenectomy can reduce or eliminate the tension that contributes to a gap between the upper front teeth, and in some cases the gap may close on its own over time, particularly in younger patients whose teeth are still developing. In other cases, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to fully address the spacing. Dr. Mahmood will discuss what to expect for your specific situation during the consultation and can coordinate with your orthodontist as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
