A frenectomy is the removal of a frenum in the mouth. In your mouth, the “frenum” refers to a piece of soft tissue connected to the lips and gums. If the frenum is too short or too tight, it can interfere with breastfeeding, swallowing, or speech development.

Frenectomy procedures are quite common, especially during the infant stage of life. Most of the time, however, the term refers to an oral procedure meant to resolve a tongue tie or a lip tie.

Oral frenectomies are relatively simple, quick in-office procedures. They have become more common in recent years, as some people in the medical community think they can help with breastfeeding and speech development.

Releasing a lip tie or tongue tie carries a very small risk of infection or complications. It should start healing up right away. Speak to your doctor if you suspect that you or your child has a lip tie or tongue tie.