How a Frenectomy Can Improve How You Speak
Posted on 12/15/2025 by San Francisco Dental Arts |
 Have you ever struggled with speaking clearly, especially certain words? It might not be a problem with your intelligence or effort; sometimes, a small piece of tissue in your mouth called a frenum can be the culprit. Let’s explore how a simple procedure called a frenectomy can help improve your speech and overall quality of life.
What is a Frenum and Why Does It Matter?
We all have frenums (or frenula, if we're talking about more than one) in our mouths. These are small folds of tissue that connect different parts of our mouth. The most common ones are:
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Lingual Frenum: This connects the bottom of your tongue to the floor of your mouth. |
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Labial Frenum: This connects your upper lip to your gums, right above your front teeth. |
Usually, these frenums are just the right size and don't cause any problems. However, sometimes a frenum can be too short or too thick. When this happens, it can restrict movement. A too-tight lingual frenum is often referred to as "tongue-tie."
How a Short Frenum Affects Speech
A short or tight lingual frenum can significantly impact speech development and clarity. Imagine trying to pronounce words that require you to lift your tongue to the roof of your mouth. If your tongue is tethered too tightly, it can make sounds like "t," "d," "l," "s," "z," "th," "r," and "n" difficult to pronounce correctly. This can be frustrating for both children learning to speak and adults who want to improve their articulation.
In addition to speech difficulties, a restricted lingual frenum can also cause other issues such as difficulty breastfeeding in infants, problems with eating certain foods, and even contribute to poor oral care because it's harder to clean your teeth effectively.
What is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure to release the frenum. It involves either cutting or removing the frenum, allowing for greater movement of the tongue or lip. The procedure is generally quick, and can be performed with a scalpel or a laser. Laser frenectomies are often preferred because they can result in less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.
The Frenectomy Procedure
The frenectomy procedure itself is relatively straightforward. First, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. The dentist or oral surgeon will then carefully release the frenum using either a scalpel or a laser. Stitches may or may not be necessary, depending on the extent of the procedure. The whole process typically takes just a few minutes.
After the Frenectomy
Following a frenectomy, some mild discomfort and swelling is normal. Pain medication can help manage any discomfort. It's important to follow your dentist's instructions for post-operative care, which may include gentle exercises to improve tongue or lip mobility. These exercises help prevent the frenum from reattaching and ensure optimal results.
Other Benefits Beyond Speech
While improved speech is a major benefit, a frenectomy can also contribute to better overall oral health. Releasing a tight labial frenum can close a large gap between the front teeth and make oral care easier. In some cases, a frenectomy is necessary as part of restoration dentistry treatment plans to create space for a denture. Improved tongue mobility can also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
If you or your child is experiencing speech difficulties or other issues related to a tight frenum, talk to your dentist. A frenectomy might be the solution to unlock clearer speech and improve overall oral health.
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