What is a frenectomy?

Occasionally, a thick piece of soft tissue grows between the front surfaces of the upper central incisor teeth up to the maxilla (upper jaw).  This tissue is attached strongly to the bone.  Often, the result of this excessive frenum attachment is the inability for the upper front teeth to meet, and the resultant space in the front of the mouth is unsightly.  This condition may cause the back teeth to come together in an improper position (malocclusion).

Treatment for this excessive frenum condition is a simple surgical procedure called a frenectomy.  The frenectomy procedure may be accomplished using a standard scalpel, a technique called radiosurgery, or with a laser.  Healing time is fast, usually just a few days.  After the frenectomy, the two front teeth eventually come together by themselves and the remainder of the teeth can then meet (occlude) in a proper relationship.

Do not wait.  As soon as an excessive frenum is diagnosed, have it removed.