A frenectomy is a minor oral surgical procedure that removes or reshapes the frenulum, a thin fold of tissue that connects the lips, cheeks, or tongue to the gums or floor of the mouth. In the mouth, common frenula include the labial frenulum, which connects the upper or lower lip to the gums, and the lingual frenulum, which connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
The procedure may be recommended when the frenulum is too tight, thick, or positioned in a way that interferes with oral function or dental development. For example, an enlarged labial frenulum may contribute to spacing between the front teeth, while a restrictive lingual frenulum may affect tongue movement. During a frenectomy, the dentist or oral surgeon removes or modifies the tissue to improve mobility and oral function.