10/31/2025
Frenectomy Friday!! A simple procedure that we offer here at Respira that has such a big impact!
A frenectomy — a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases a tight frenulum (the small fold of tissue under the tongue, upper lip, or sometimes between the lower front teeth) — can have significant benefits for school-aged children, especially when performed at the right time.
🗣️ Speech and Communication
• Improved articulation: A tight tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) can restrict tongue movement, leading to difficulty pronouncing certain sounds like “r,” “l,” “t,” “d,” “th,” and “s.”
• Better speech therapy outcomes: If the child is in speech therapy, a frenectomy can make progress faster and more effective.
• Increased confidence: Clearer speech helps reduce frustration and boosts confidence in social and classroom settings.
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😬 Dental and Orthodontic Health
• Better tooth alignment: A tight upper lip or tongue tie can pull on gum tissue or affect how teeth come together, contributing to gaps (especially between front teeth) or bite issues.
• Reduced risk of gum recession: A low-attached lip tie can tug on the gum line and lead to gum recession over time.
• Supports orthodontic treatment: Releasing a restrictive frenum can help stabilize orthodontic results and reduce relapse.
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😴 Breathing and Airway Support
• Improved oral rest posture: Children with tight oral tissues often mouth-breathe or have low tongue posture, which can affect jaw and airway development.
• Better sleep quality: A functional tongue posture supports nasal breathing, which can reduce snoring or mild sleep-disordered breathing symptoms.
