Comfort & Function Care
Frenectomy in North Conway, NH
A small tissue release that can improve comfort, mobility, and long-term gum health.
A frenum is the small band of tissue that connects your lip or tongue to the gums. When it’s too tight or thick, it can contribute to spacing, gum pulling, or limited movement. At White Mountain Dental in North Conway, NH, a frenectomy is planned carefully to support comfort and healthier function.
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Frenectomy at White Mountain Dental
A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases or removes a restrictive frenum to improve movement and reduce tissue tension. At White Mountain Dental in North Conway, NH, we evaluate how the frenum affects speech, chewing, brushing, orthodontic stability, and gum health, then recommend the most conservative approach.
Why a Frenectomy May Be Recommended
A tight frenum can pull on the gums, make brushing uncomfortable, or contribute to recession over time. In some cases, it can be associated with a gap between the front teeth, difficulty with certain speech sounds, or limited tongue mobility. The goal is improved function and reduced strain on the surrounding tissue.
- Reduces gum pulling and irritation Helps relieve tension that can contribute to recession or tenderness.
- Supports easier hygiene Improves access for brushing and flossing when tissue restricts movement.
- Improves mobility and comfort Can help lip or tongue movement feel less restricted.
- Complements orthodontic care May be recommended to help maintain spacing corrections in certain situations.
What to Expect During the Procedure
We start with an exam to confirm the frenum is contributing to symptoms or risk. The area is numbed for comfort, then the tissue is released or reshaped in a controlled way. Many patients describe the appointment as quick, with minimal downtime. We’ll review aftercare and what normal healing should feel like.
- Careful evaluation of lip and tongue movement and gum tension
- Local numbing to keep you comfortable during treatment
- Conservative tissue reshaping to reduce restriction
- Post-procedure guidance for gentle cleaning and healing
Healing, Aftercare, and Next Steps
Most patients experience mild soreness for a short time and return to regular routines quickly. We’ll recommend simple steps to keep the area clean and comfortable as it heals. If your frenum feels tight, causes pulling at the gums, or you’ve been advised to consider a frenectomy as part of orthodontic or gum care, contact White Mountain Dental in North Conway, NH to schedule an evaluation and get clear answers.
Frenectomy FAQ
- What is a frenectomy?
- A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases or reshapes a tight band of tissue (frenum) connecting the lip or tongue to the gums, improving comfort and mobility.
- How do I know if my frenum is a problem?
- Common signs include gum pulling, discomfort when brushing, a tight feeling with lip or tongue movement, a persistent gap between front teeth, or recommendations from orthodontic or gum evaluations.
- Is a frenectomy painful?
- The area is numbed, so most patients feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is common and typically short-lived.
- How long does healing take?
- Many people feel significantly better within a few days, with continued tissue healing over the next couple of weeks. We’ll provide aftercare instructions to support smooth healing.
- Can a frenectomy help prevent gum recession?
- If a tight frenum is pulling on the gumline, releasing it can reduce tension and irritation, which may help protect the gums over time as part of an overall prevention plan.
- Will a frenectomy close a gap between my front teeth?
- It depends. A tight lip frenum can be related to spacing, but closing a gap often involves orthodontic treatment. A frenectomy may be recommended to support long-term stability after spacing is corrected.
- Can children and adults both have a frenectomy?
- Yes. The recommendation depends on symptoms, function, and risk to gum health—not just age. We tailor the timing and approach to the individual.
- What should I avoid after the procedure?
- For a short time, softer foods can be more comfortable. Avoid spicy or crunchy foods if they irritate the area, and follow the hygiene steps we recommend.
- Will I need special exercises after a frenectomy?
- In some cases, gentle movement guidance may be helpful to support healing and prevent the tissue from tightening again. We’ll let you know what applies to you.
- How do I get started?
- Schedule an evaluation so we can assess tissue tension, mobility, and gum health. At White Mountain Dental in North Conway, NH, we’ll explain whether a frenectomy is beneficial and what to expect.
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