A frenulum that is attached too low can cause a permanent gap between the teeth, affect speech and complicate orthodontic treatment. Frenulum correction is a minor procedure with a significant impact.
The labial frenulum is a small fold of mucous membrane between the upper lip and the gums. If it is attached very low down — that is, close to the incisors — this fold can prevent the gap between the teeth from closing naturally. This often results in a visible, permanent gap (diastema), which will not close without correction of the lip frenulum.
In children, a frenulum that is too low can also affect speech and complicate orthodontic treatment. Correction — medically known as a frenotomy or frenectomy — provides a quick solution in such cases.
Lip frenulum correction is recommended if the frenulum attaches so low down that it keeps a gap open between the front teeth. In children, the procedure should only be carried out once the lateral incisors have erupted — as the gap sometimes closes on its own at that stage. We assess the right time on a case-by-case basis. In adults, supplementary orthodontic treatment is usually required after a frenotomy to close the gap.
A frenectomy is a minor outpatient procedure carried out under local anaesthetic at our practice. The excess mucosal tissue is cut away using a scalpel or laser — the procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The wound is closed with a few absorbable stitches, which dissolve on their own. The procedure is gentle, well tolerated and heals quickly.
After a frenectomy, the wound site will be sensitive for a few days. We recommend a soft diet and good oral hygiene. Special stretching exercises can prevent the frenulum from scarring too tightly. We will show you these exercises after the procedure — they are simple and important for a good long-term result.
Many parents wonder whether a lip tie correction is advisable in early childhood. The answer depends on the findings. If the lip tie is clearly the cause of a persistent gap between the teeth and the lateral incisors have already erupted, a frenotomy is perfectly feasible at this age. We carry out the procedure in a child-friendly and sensitive manner — our young patients generally tolerate it very well.
Do you or your child have a noticeable gap between the incisors? We’ll assess whether a lip tie correction is the right course of action. Book an appointment at our practice at Baarerstrasse 12 in Zug.
If a frenulum that is attached too low is left untreated, the gap between the teeth will, in many cases, remain permanent. Although orthodontic treatment can close the gap, if the frenulum is not corrected, the gap often reopens once treatment is complete. Early assessment is also recommended for children who have difficulty with pronunciation. A simple dental examination is all it takes to determine whether surgery is advisable. We’ll advise you honestly and without any pressure.
Book an appointment at our practice at Baarerstrasse 12 in Zug.
In adults, the gap between the teeth usually does not close on its own after a frenotomy. Additional orthodontic treatment — for example, with aligners or fixed braces — closes the gap permanently. We coordinate the two treatments to ensure the result remains stable in the long term.
The cost of a frenectomy is reasonable — it is a minor surgical procedure. Where there is a medical indication, such as when a child’s speech is impaired or in preparation for orthodontic treatment, basic health insurance may cover part of the cost. We will provide you with transparent information in advance.
A lip tie that is too short or set too low can make breastfeeding difficult for infants, as the child is unable to latch onto the breast properly. In this case — medically referred to as a lip tie anomaly — early correction may be advisable. The procedure is minimally invasive in infants and is carried out under local anaesthetic or brief sedation. We advise parents openly in this situation and recommend the appropriate timing in consultation with your paediatrician.
Not every low-set frenulum needs to be corrected. For children whose gap narrows on its own after their permanent teeth have come through, it may be possible to wait and see for the time being. However, if the gap persists or if orthodontic treatment is planned, we recommend carrying out the frenulum correction in good time. A brief consultation with us will help determine which approach is right for your child.
Lip tie correction is a minor but precise procedure — one that delivers good results when carried out at the right time and with care. We perform this treatment regularly, for both children and adults. Please do not hesitate to ask us any questions — we’ll take the time to provide a detailed consultation.