Dentist wants to do a frenectomy? Never heard of it!

Question

My dentist yesterday told me that I need to have a labial frenectomy (I apologize if I spelled that wrong) because the frenum (the band that runs from the inside of my bottom lip to the bottom of my teeth, basically) is "pulling down" my gums in the bottom front; for lack of a better way to say it. They have to go in with a laser and cut this band. (the frenum) My gum in the bottom front on one of my teeth has always been super low anyway, but apparently the frenum is pulling it down even more, or contributing to it. Obviously you wouldn't want this to recede any further, because the root of a tooth is only so long. You can't regrow the gum, but you can prevent it from receding any further. I was wondering if anyone has heard of this procedure being done? And before I go lasering this thing, what is the frenum for? Am I going to have a bottom lip like Bubba Gump if I cut it? Sorry for the example, but it's the most clear image I could think of. :o)

Answer 1

don't worry. the procedure is simple. u will remain looking like urself after the procedure. it is a very simple procedure which should take about 10-15 min.

the frenum is a band of muscle in that area. the labial frenum does not have an major role to play out there so u dont have to worry.  

Answer 2

Just do it....sounds exactly right to me the way you described it....it will be easy! And your gums will be better in the long run....

Answer 3

Your dentist should be able to allay your fears and explain everything to you in understandable terms.  If he is not doing this and you feel rushed, then by all means, get a second opinion.  

My daughter had to have a frenectomy when she had braces, due to an over-build up of frenum material affecting her teeth alignment.  It was a very simple, uncomplicated procedure that met with complete success.  I wouldn't be the least bit worried about it if I were you.

The freum is between your teeth...it is not going to affect your lip structure.  This is just some muscular material between your teeth.

Answer 4

What you have described is bang on!  I have also heard of this procedure being done as part of a few perio treatments,  and even in some cases prior to having dentures made (since the frenum can dislodge the dentures).  Although I haven't done this or seen it done yet, I am told that it takes about five minutes and is a fairly simple procedure.  The name "labial frenectomy" makes it sound terrifying, but it really isn't that major.

The frena don't really have an important function, so you won't miss yours.  The muscles are what keep your lips where they should be, so cutting a frenum won't make you look weird. :)

Edit:  The frenum is NOT muscle...it is just soft connective tissue...ie, skin, collagen, blood vessels.

Answer 5

I know several people who have had this done.  Don't worry, you won't look a thing like Bubba Gump.  You'll looke exactly the same as you do now :)