Frenulum

The frenulum is a small band of tissue that connects two structures in the body, helping to stabilize them. There are several types of frenula, including:

  • Lingual Frenulum: This is the tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A tight lingual frenulum can restrict tongue movement, a condition known as tongue tie (ankyloglossia), which can affect speech and feeding in infants.

  • Labial Frenulum: This connects the inner lip to the gums. It can be found in both the upper and lower lips. In some cases, a prominent labial frenulum can cause issues with dental alignment or gum recession.

  • Frenulum of the Clitoris: This is the tissue that connects the clitoris to the pubic bone and can be involved in sexual function.

Symptoms of Frenulum Issues

Problems with the frenulum can lead to various symptoms, including:

  • Difficulty in speech or eating (in the case of a tongue tie)
  • Pain or discomfort during movement of the tongue or lips
  • Gum recession or dental issues (in the case of a prominent labial frenulum)
  • Discomfort during sexual activity (related to the frenulum of the clitoris)

Treatment Options

Treatment for frenulum issues depends on the specific condition:

  1. For Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia):

    • Frenectomy: A surgical procedure where the frenulum is clipped or removed to free the tongue. This is usually a simple procedure performed in a doctor’s office or clinic and can often be done with local anesthesia.
    • Speech Therapy: After surgery, speech therapy may be recommended to help improve articulation and swallowing.

  2. For Labial Frenulum Issues:

    • Frenectomy: Similar to tongue tie treatment, if a prominent labial frenulum is causing dental issues or discomfort, it may be surgically removed or altered.
    • Orthodontic Consultation: For patients with alignment issues, an orthodontist may provide guidance on how to address them.

  3. For Clitoral Frenulum Issues:

    • Surgical Intervention: If the frenulum is causing significant discomfort during sexual activity, a surgical procedure may be considered to alleviate the tension or tightness.