Frenectomy Cost

A frenectomy might be one of the best values available when it comes to dentistry and possible improvements in your oral hygiene. The frenum’s are two small piece of soft tissue in your mouth. The labial frenum is located between your upper lip and your two front teeth. The lingual frenum is the tissue that is attached to your tongue and the floor of your mouth. If either frenum is malformed they may cause difficulties. A larger labial frenum will create a space between your front teeth, resulting in possible orthodontic correction with braces. A shorter lingual frenum and you may have problems with certain speech patterns and possibly even swallowing correctly. It restricts the ability of an infant to extend their tongue properly and to also cup the tongue to breastfeed properly. A frenectomy will correct these issues in less than an hour.

The Frenectomy Procedure

There are three methods to perform a frenectomy. The first approach is a traditional method to begin with a local anesthesia around the frenum. Then either your general dentist or an oral surgeon will use a small scalpel to simply trim the excess tissue. Sutures may be used at the surgery site, and the procedure produces very little blood loss.

A second innovative method is to introduce a dental laser. The laser will cut and coagulate the tissue at the same time, eliminating the need for any sutures. This method has no blood loss.

The final method is to use a heated electrode and burn the excess or abnormal tissue. Having the thermal cautery will also involve no blood loss.

The Range in Cost for a Frenectomy

Only an average cost can be identified. As simple as the procedure is to perform, it still depends on the professional conducting the procedure, the geographic market you are located in, whether it is your upper or lower frenum, the method or approach used, the age of the patient, and the actual amount of tissue being removed. The cost might begin at $250 and jump to $2,500 based on the factors listed. It seems that the majority of frenectomies range between $250 and $1200, which yields a national average of around $750.

Recovery and Benefits

The recovery time is between a few days and a week, depending on the method applied. You will be given some straightforward, common-sense instructions to assist either you or your child with the recovery. You will need to use a saltwater gargle for a few days to fend off any infection, and you will need to consider the diet you will enjoy. You could find hot spicy food uncomfortable until your frenulum has healed.

This simple corrective procedure can be performed on any age of patient. An infant will immediately enjoy the benefit of breastfeeding properly. A teenager might not have to wear braces to correct their upper front teeth. An adult could find it easier to enunciate certain words and syllables and no longer struggle with natural swallowing. If you question a frenum issue, bring it to the attention of your family dentist.

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