What is a common reason for performing a frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or modification of the frenulum, a band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. One of the most common reasons for performing a frenectomy is to increase the range of motion of the tongue.

When the frenulum is too tight, it can restrict the movement of the tongue, leading to difficulties in speech, eating, and other oral functions. This restricted tongue movement is often referred to as ankyloglossia, or "tongue-tie." By performing a frenectomy, the tight frenulum is either snipped or removed, allowing for greater mobility of the tongue. This can significantly enhance a patient’s ability to articulate sounds properly, and improve overall oral function.

While improving esthetics, reducing inflammation, and facilitating orthodontic treatment are considerations that may arise in different contexts, the primary function of a frenectomy focuses on optimizing the functional movement of the tongue. In situations where the frenulum is affecting this mobility, the procedure is particularly justified, leading to marked improvements in the patient’s oral capabilities.