Lip frenum surgery (frenectomy)
lip tie release · upper lip frenum trimming · lip frenuloplasty · short upper lip frenum
The doctor changes a short lip frenum - the fold between the lip and the gum. Afterwards the lip moves more freely and does not pull on the gum.
When the frenum causes a gap between the front teeth, pulls on the gum or gets in the way of braces treatment.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Eat, or feed your child, 1 to 2 hours before the procedure.
- Teeth. Brush your teeth before the visit.
What to bring
- Your ID
- A referral from the orthodontist, if you have one
How it goes
- The doctor examines the lip and frenum
- Numbing is given by injection
- The frenum is cut and reshaped with a scalpel or laser
- Thin stitches are placed, if needed
- The small wound is pressed with gauze
What you'll feel
- The numbing injection is unpleasant, then you feel only pressure
- Afterwards the lip is numb for 1 to 2 hours
- It aches and swells a little for a few days
Afterwards
- Do not eat until the numbness is gone
- For 1 to 2 days eat soft, not hot food
- Do not pull the lip away to look at the wound
- Rinse your mouth as your doctor says
- Stitches are removed or dissolve - your doctor will say
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding does not stop when you press on it
- Severe swelling of the lip, or fever above 38
- Pus in the wound
Common questions
Will the gap between the teeth close by itself?
Sometimes yes, sometimes an orthodontist is needed. The doctor will tell you what to expect.
When can I brush my teeth?
Usually the same day, carefully going around the wound.