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How Does a Frenectomy Work for an Adult?
At Southcoast Dental in Wareham, we know that adults often live with a restricted frenum for years without realizing how much it affects daily comfort, speech, or oral health. If you are noticing tension under the tongue or lip, difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene, or ongoing challenges with mobility or alignment, an adult frenectomy may provide the relief you have been looking for. Our goal is to offer clear, honest information so you can understand how this procedure works and decide whether it is the right solution for you.
This Article Will Address
- How a frenectomy works for adult patients
- Whether the procedure is worth it for adults
- Recovery time and healing expectations
- Risks and complications to be aware of
- How adults can prepare for the procedure
- Whether a frenectomy can improve adult speech
- Why adults choose Southcoast Dental for frenectomy care in Wareham MA
How Does a Frenectomy Work for an Adult?
A frenectomy is a straightforward procedure that removes or releases a tight band of tissue, called the frenum, located beneath the tongue or inside the upper or lower lip. Adults typically seek treatment when this tissue limits movement, creates tension, causes gum recession, affects speech, or interferes with dental appliances.
A typical adult frenectomy begins with a thorough examination and precise digital imaging using CBCT technology. This allows us to evaluate the frenum’s position, the surrounding tissues, and any structural concerns. Depending on the case, the procedure can be completed with a traditional method or with advanced laser technology for greater comfort and a shorter recovery. Once the frenum is released, we review aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure healthy healing.
At Southcoast Dental, we use tools such as the Solea laser, CEREC technology, and high-resolution CBCT imaging to make this process gentler and more efficient, helping adult patients return to normal activities quickly.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy involves adjusting or removing the small tissue band that connects the tongue or lip to the surrounding gum. While this structure is normal, it can become overly tight in adults. When this happens, patients may experience difficulty with movement, gum recession caused by tension, or ongoing discomfort.
Adults may also need a frenectomy if orthodontic spacing returns, if dentures or aligners become difficult to stabilize, or if a restricted frenum interferes with brushing, flossing, or maintaining oral hygiene. This aligns with what many national resources describe, but our focus is evaluating each patient individually to determine whether treatment is truly necessary.
Why Would an Adult Need a Frenectomy?
Adults in Wareham and the surrounding Cape Cod region often seek this procedure for several reasons. The most common include:
- Pain or tension under the tongue or lip
- Limited tongue or lip movement
- Difficulty keeping dentures, trays, or aligners stable
- Gum recession caused by a pulling frenum
- Speech concerns related to restricted mobility
- Orthodontic relapse or spacing returning after treatment
During your consultation, we take time to explain exactly why the restriction exists and how a frenectomy may help improve your oral function and long-term comfort.
Is a Frenectomy Worth It for Adults?
For many adults, a frenectomy offers meaningful improvements that enhance daily function and long term oral health. Benefits often include better mobility, reduced gum tension, easier brushing and flossing, and greater stability of dentures or orthodontic appliances. It may also support periodontal treatment, implant success, and orthodontic outcomes. When these improvements align with your concerns, the procedure becomes a valuable investment in your health and comfort.
What Is the Recovery Time for a Frenectomy in Adults?
Most adults heal within one to two weeks. Laser frenectomy patients often experience even faster healing with minimal discomfort. During days one through three, mild soreness is common. From days four to seven, mobility typically improves and tissue begins to stabilize. By the end of week two, most patients feel fully recovered. You can usually return to work the same day or the following day, depending on your comfort level.
How Can an Adult Prepare for a Frenectomy?
Preparation is simple, but helpful steps include:
- Reviewing your medical history and medications with our team
- Eating a light meal beforehand unless instructed otherwise
- Understanding aftercare expectations so you feel prepared
- Asking any questions you may have before the appointment
We believe in honest, open communication, and we encourage you to discuss any concerns during your consultation.
Does a Frenectomy Improve Speech in Adults?
A restricted frenum can affect articulation and speed of movement for some adults. When tongue or lip mobility improves, speech may become clearer and more precise. The greatest improvements occur when a frenectomy is paired with professional speech therapy. During your visit, we discuss whether your specific concerns are likely to improve with treatment.
What to Expect After Your Adult Frenectomy
After the procedure, you may notice mild tenderness that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. We will show you how to care for the area and may recommend gentle movement exercises depending on your case. Soft foods are helpful during the first couple of days. A follow up visit ensures healing is progressing normally. Because we offer emergency care during open hours, our team is available if you have any unexpected concerns.
Why Choose Southcoast Dental for an Adult Frenectomy in Wareham, MA?
Adults choose our practice because we combine advanced diagnostic technology to create customized treatment plans. With CBCT imaging, the Solea laser, same-day care options, and a team committed to clear communication, we provide a streamlined and comfortable experience. Dr. James Kiehl’s background in advanced training and his commitment to honest guidance reflect our philosophy of delivering the best possible care without overtreatment. We take pride in welcoming patients from Wareham and the surrounding coastal communities and building long-term relationships based on trust.
Schedule an Adult Frenectomy Consultation in Wareham, MA
If you are experiencing discomfort, limited mobility, or ongoing dental concerns related to a tight frenum, our team is here to help. Southcoast Dental provides advanced, patient-centered frenectomy care supported by leading technology and a commitment to clear communication. We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Kiehl in our Wareham MA office and take the next step toward improved oral health and comfort.
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