Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 5 minutes
A frenectomy is a simple procedure with a short recovery time, but infections can still happen. In this blog, we explain how healing should progress, the signs that something might be wrong, and when it’s time to call your oral surgeon.
Table of Contents
Legacy Surgery offers frenectomies in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA.
Key Takeaway
Most patients heal quickly after a frenectomy, but it’s important to know what’s normal and what’s not. If you notice unusual pain, swelling, or discharge, don’t wait, early attention from your oral surgeon can prevent more serious complications and keep your recovery on track.
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy removes or loosens a fold of tissue called the frenum to restore normal oral function.
A frenum is a small band of tissue that connects parts of your mouth. The two most common types treated are:
- Lingual frenectomy: Loosens the lingual frenum under the tongue. This is commonly known as a tongue tie.
- Labial frenectomy: Loosens the labial frenum between the upper lip and gums. This is commonly known as a lip tie.
This procedure is often performed to improve feeding in infants, to help with speech development, reduce spacing between teeth, or to support denture fit.
What Should Healing Look Like After a Frenectomy?
Some discomfort is expected in the first few days after a frenectomy. You might notice slight bleeding and a white or yellow coating on the surgical site, this is called fibrin, and it’s a normal part of how your body heals.
Here’s what typical recovery looks like:
- Mild pain during the first 1 to 3 days, managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication
- Pink or red edges around the healing area
- A gradual return of tongue movement or lip mobility after several days
By days 10 to 14, most patients are back to their usual routines. Full healing may take a few weeks, depending on the procedure and how closely you follow your aftercare instructions.
Signs of Infection After Frenectomy
Some symptoms go beyond the expected healing process and may indicate a serious issue. Watch for these signs of infection:
- Worsening or severe pain after day 3
- Swelling that spreads to cheeks or under the jaw
- Redness that intensifies or expands
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Excessive bleeding beyond the first day
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Hard lump or fluid buildup under the site
If you notice any of these, contact your oral surgeon or seek medical attention.
How to Prevent Infection After a Frenectomy
Infections after a frenectomy aren’t common, but they can happen, especially if the area isn’t cared for properly. The good news? Most issues are preventable with the right habits during recovery.
Here’s what to avoid to keep healing on track:
- Poor oral hygiene: Skipping rinses or brushing too aggressively can introduce bacteria. Follow your aftercare instructions carefully.
- Touching or stretching the area too soon: Let the tissue heal without extra pressure or movement.
- Eating crunchy or spicy foods too early: These can irritate the site and delay healing.
- Smoking or drinking alcohol: Both reduce blood flow and slow down your body’s natural healing process.
- Underlying conditions: Health issues like dry mouth, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of infection. Be extra cautious if any of these apply to you.
Stick to soft foods, rinse with warm salt water as directed, and rest as much as you can. A few days of care now will go a long way in preventing complications later.
When to Call Your Oral Surgeon
If you notice a sign of infection or anything unusual, do not wait, contact your oral surgeon immediately.
Dr. Kesecker may recommend:
- In-person exam to assess the healing tissue
- Antibiotics if the infection is confirmed
- Drainage for fluid buildup or abscesses
- Adjustments to post-surgery aftercare instructions
- Monitoring for optimal healing and prevention of complications
Prompt attention prevents the risk of more serious oral health complications.
How Legacy Surgery Supports Healing
Our team focuses on prevention, education, and follow-up care to ensure a smooth recovery.
- We assess oral development, speech concerns, and dental health before the procedure.
- We perform tongue-tie release using advanced equipment.
- We tailor post-surgery plans based on age, healing time, and goals for proper tongue movement.
- We show patients oral exercises to maintain range of motion and reduce reattachment rate.
- We remain available to address questions or changes in the recovery time.
Legacy Surgery: Your Oral Surgeon in Staunton, VA
If you are looking for an experienced oral surgeon in Staunton, VA, Legacy Surgery is here to help. With two locations in the Shenandoah Valley, our Staunton office provides expert surgical care to the residents of Staunton and surrounding communites.
Whether you need a frenectomy or are experiencing unusual symptoms after a recent procedure, Dr. Kesecker and the team are committed to helping you heal comfortably and confidently.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Staunton, call (540) 213-8750 or visit us at 110-C Mactanly Pl., Staunton, VA 24401.
📍Other location
Legacy Surgery Harrisonburg, VA
(540) 437-1230
2071 Pro Pointe Lane, Harrisonburg, VA.
FAQs
What are the do’s and don’ts after a frenectomy?
Do follow all post-operative care instructions, including gentle rinses, soft foods, and oral exercises. Do not smoke, eat crunchy or spicy foods, or touch the area unnecessarily during healing.
How long will the mouth be sore after a frenectomy?
Most patients feel mild discomfort for 1 to 3 days. Some soreness may linger for up to a week depending on the type of frenectomy and personal healing time.
How do I know if my frenectomy is infected?
Watch for signs of infection such as increasing pain after day 3, pus, swelling that spreads, fever, or foul-smelling discharge. Contact your oral surgeon promptly if you notice any of these.