How a Frenectomy Can Improve How You Speak Posted on 11/15/2018 by Sundberg Office A frenectomy is a relatively simple surgical procedure that remove the frenum the mouth. The frenum is the tough tissue that attaches organs to neighboring tissue to prevent excess movement, but in some patients, this tether can hinder the ability to speak. A frenectomy can improve this problem and offer a wealth of other benefits.
Benefits of Frenectomy on Children
Children under the age of six go through rapid orofacial development and growth. In some cases, increasing the tongue's range of motion might allow him to more easily position the tong in a normal way. When a child's tongue is capable of a normal range of motion, a frenectomy may help to make adjustments in function for speech, swallowing and chewing. With the frenum intact, this movement may be restricted. The most obvious indicator that a child needs a frenectomy is a lisp or slurred speech. Once movement is less restricted, it should be easier for him or her to speak clearly and naturally.
Other Benefits of a Frenectomy
There are other benefits of a lingual frenectomy that you should consider if we feel that this procedure might be right for you or your child: • Quick procedure. A frenectomy only takes a few minutes, but the results can be long-lasting. • Simple recovery. Any discomfort that arises from your frenectomy should subside within a day or two. • Nursing. In infants, a frenectomy can eliminate problems with eating and nursing, and it can also improve breastfeeding abilities. • Facial appearance. A labial frenectomy will improve facial appearance by eliminating the tooth gap between the two top front teeth. If you think that a frenectomy might be a good choice for you, give our office a call. We can help you weigh the pros and cons of the procedure to make the best decision for your life.