Frenectomy Surgery in Greenbrae
A frenum is a naturally occurring band-like soft tissue attachment, which attaches the muscles of the lips and tongue to the gum ridge. These structures are quite normal and a standard anatomic finding in all of our mouths. However, some individuals can have very strong and tightly attached forms of these bands, which can actually be quite problematic. The most commonly prominent and problematic frena (plural for frenum) include:
The Upper Midline Labial Frenum: This band attaches the middle of the upper lip to the gum ridge between the two upper front teeth. When tightly attached high on the gum ridge, this band of tissue can actually prevent the two front teeth from growing together, resulting in a diastemma (or gap), which can lead to a long-term orthodontic and cosmetic problem. Also, it can lead to chronic gum recession adjacent to the two front teeth.
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The Lingual Frenum: This band attaches the underside and tip of the middle of the tongue to the gum ridge on the backside of the lower front teeth. When this frenum is overgrown and/or tight, some pediatric and adult patients can actually experience significant problems with speech, swallowing, chewing, and chronic irritation from limited mobility of the tongue. This is a condition known as “tongue-tied” or more scientifically “ankyloglossia.”
The Lower Midline Labial Frenum: This band attaches the middle of the lower lip to the gum ridge between the two lower front teeth. When tightly attached high on the gum ridge, this band of tissue can actually cause significant recession of the gum tissues on the lower front teeth, which can lead to long-term compromise of the health of these teeth.
If any of these problems are noted, treatment with a procedure called a “frenectomy” is indicated in order to prevent ongoing or worsening issues. A frenectomy essentially involves surgical removal of the problematic tight band of tissue in order to release the tension on the affected attached structures. Depending on which problem is being treated, a frenectomy provides excellent results with facilitation of gap closure between the front teeth, significantly improved tongue mobility and function, and/or better long-term gum health around affected teeth.
Mynsberge, Ruggles & Yang Oral Surgery
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Wow! I wish all medical practices were this good. Matt is a fantastic dentist. I had somewhat of an emergency tooth removal, and he made the whole process as easy as it could be. I had some questions and concerns following surgery, but he took the time to explain what was going on. Basically, I was pretty nervous about the whole process, but he reassured me and explained everything along the way. Everyone in the office was great also.
- John F
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Our family has experience with both Dr M and Dr R. They are each super-awesome. My 8 y.o. had an upper supernumery removed by Dr M; no problem. I was somewhat surprised because she usually really doesn't like anyone even touching her teeth. Many thanks!
- Ann S
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Simply outstanding care at this practice. My husband and I are both physicians and we're pretty picky when it comes to who treats our family. From the moment you come in the door and meet the front desk, you can sense the commitment to excellence and patient experience. I especially appreciate the in-depth preparation and explanation my daughter and I received with genuine warmth and patience from her surgeon, Dr. Mynsberge. Everyone who assisted with her procedure was so kind and reassuring. She felt at ease with this whole team!
- Tracy E
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Dr Mynsberge did a small surgery to me and I couldn't be more happy. His work was flawless, his assistant amazing. Doctor M and his staff made me feel confident and secure. Going back in 6 months for my implant. I totally recommend them. Thanks to all the team from Mynsberge and Ruggles!
- Maria P
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Went into having a molar removed with great trepidation. To put it bluntly I was terrified. My worries were needless. Even the placing of a needle into a vein in my arm was painless. After the needle, the whole thing disappeared - I awoke with no discomfort and with everyone smiling at me. It was a non-event for me. I am so impressed with the staff and Dr. Ruggles, and I recommend them highly.
- William B
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Thank you for taking such good care of my mom, Jackie Brand and her tooth. She was a bit overwhelmed and scared, but came through very well and her recovery was better than expected. Sincerely, Janet Sayles
- Janet S
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Excellent reception, excellent procedure, excellent care...I couldn't be more relieved and pleased!
- Duncan M
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I had a bad infection due to my impacted wisdom teeth. It was very painful. I called their office that day, met with Dr. Mynsberge a few hours later, and was amazed at how accommodating his team was. Dr. Ruggles saw me the next day and skillfully handled the rest. Can't say enough good things about their practice to my friends and family. Highly recommend.
- Johnny X
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I cannot recommend this practice any higher. After breaking a tooth on a tortilla chip Sunday afternoon, my dentist told me that it needed to come out ASAP. I got a referral to Mynsberge and Ruggles and called. While they were booked out 2 weeks, they made an accommodation for me the next day, after hours and kept most of the staff there to accommodate my needs. Dr. Mat Ruggles was fantastic, gentle and empathetic. Amazing follow up, these guys are on top of their game!
- Tony A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Mynsberge is the nicest doctor I have ever worked with. He has treated me, 3 of my 4 kids, and I have sent multiple friends and family to him because I like the guy so much. I basically look forward to getting teeth pulled. He is professional, so warm, thorough, and super friendly all around. Don't hesitate to go see him and get your teeth pulled. It is actually really relaxing and completely pleasant. I would give him 10 stars.
- Jacki S