Frenectomy in Hanoi, Vietnam

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor oral surgical procedure that removes or modifies a frenum (frenulum), a small fold of tissue connecting two structures in the mouth. The two frena most commonly treated are the lingual frenum (connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) and the labial frenum (connecting the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth). When a lingual frenum is too short or tight, it restricts tongue movement — a condition known as tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). An overly thick labial frenum can cause gapping between the front teeth or contribute to gum recession.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes frenectomy as an effective intervention for ankyloglossia that impairs breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene. Research in Pediatrics reports improvement rates exceeding 90 percent in breastfeeding outcomes following the procedure. At Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi, Vietnam, our dentists perform both traditional and laser frenectomies using precise, evidence-based techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and rapid healing for patients of all ages.

Who Needs a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy may be recommended for patients who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Infants who have difficulty breastfeeding due to tongue-tie, resulting in poor latch, insufficient milk transfer, or pain for the nursing mother
• Children with tongue-tie that affects speech development, eating ability, or oral hygiene
• Adolescents and adults with a tight lingual frenum that restricts tongue mobility, making it difficult to speak clearly, eat certain foods, or play wind instruments
• Patients of any age with a thick labial frenum that causes a persistent gap (diastema) between the front teeth, especially when orthodontic treatment alone cannot close the gap
• Patients whose labial frenum pulls on the gum tissue, contributing to progressive gum recession on the front teeth
• Denture wearers whose frenum interferes with the fit and stability of a removable denture
• Patients preparing for orthodontic treatment where the frenum may prevent successful tooth alignment

The Frenectomy Process at Our Hanoi Clinic

Step 1: Clinical Evaluation

Your dentist examines the frenum and assesses how it affects oral function. For infants, the evaluation includes observing feeding patterns and assessing tongue mobility using standardized assessment tools. For older children and adults, speech clarity, tongue range of motion, and the relationship of the frenum to surrounding tissues are evaluated. Digital imaging may be used to document the condition.

Step 2: Anesthesia and Preparation

A local anesthetic is applied to numb the treatment area completely. For very young infants, topical anesthetic alone may be sufficient because the procedure is quick and the frenum has limited nerve supply. The area is isolated and prepared for the release procedure.

Step 3: Frenum Release

The frenum is released using one of two methods: traditional release with a scalpel or surgical scissors, or laser frenectomy using a soft-tissue diode laser. Laser frenectomy offers the advantages of minimal bleeding, reduced need for sutures, and faster healing. The release procedure typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4: Closure and Wound Care

If a scalpel or scissors are used, a few small dissolvable sutures may be placed. With laser frenectomy, sutures are often unnecessary. A wound-healing agent or protective dressing may be applied to promote comfortable recovery.

Step 5: Post-Procedure Exercise Instruction

For tongue-tie releases, your dentist demonstrates specific stretching exercises designed to prevent the frenum from reattaching during healing. These exercises are particularly important for infants and young children and should be performed several times daily for two to four weeks.

Types of Frenectomy

• Lingual frenectomy releases the tissue under the tongue to treat tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), improving breastfeeding in infants and speech and eating function in older patients
• Labial frenectomy removes or modifies the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum, addressing diastema, gum recession, or denture fit problems
• Laser frenectomy uses a soft-tissue diode laser for either lingual or labial release, offering minimal bleeding and faster recovery
• Traditional frenectomy uses a scalpel or surgical scissors and may require sutures, suitable when laser is not indicated

Benefits of Frenectomy

• Improved breastfeeding success: Studies in Pediatrics report over 90 percent improvement in breastfeeding outcomes after tongue-tie release in infants
• Better speech development: Releasing tongue restrictions allows clearer pronunciation of sounds requiring full tongue mobility, including L, R, T, D, and S sounds
• Enhanced oral hygiene: A freed tongue can sweep food debris from the teeth and gums more effectively, reducing cavity risk
• Diastema closure support: Releasing a thick labial frenum enables orthodontic closure of gaps between front teeth
• Gum recession prevention: Removing a frenum that pulls on gum tissue protects against progressive gum recession and potential tooth loss
• Quick recovery: Most patients heal within one to two weeks with minimal discomfort
• Minimal invasiveness: The procedure preserves healthy tissue and requires no significant downtime
• Improved quality of life: Adults report greater confidence in speech, eating, and social interactions after frenectomy

Frenectomy Cost in Vietnam Compared to Other Countries

Frenectomy at Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi, Vietnam costs 60 to 80 percent less than in Western countries. This significant savings reflects lower operational costs in Vietnam, not a difference in quality. All frenectomy procedures at our clinic follow ADA and WHO protocols using the same instruments, laser technology, and sterilization standards found in top clinics worldwide.

Aftercare

Following these aftercare guidelines ensures optimal healing after your frenectomy at Picasso Dental Clinic:

• Apply ice or a cold compress to the outside of the mouth for the first few hours to reduce swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed by your dentist
• Eat soft foods for the first one to two days after the procedure
• Keep the surgical site clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water starting 24 hours after the procedure
• For tongue-tie releases in infants and children, perform the prescribed stretching exercises consistently to prevent reattachment
• Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods until the tissue has fully healed
• Do not use straws or create suction in the mouth for the first 48 hours
• Attend your scheduled follow-up appointment so your dentist can assess healing and functional improvement

Why Choose Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi for Frenectomy?

Picasso Dental Clinic, located at 16 Chau Long, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam, is one of the leading dental providers in the capital, situated near the Old Quarter and West Lake, two of Hanoi’s most recognized landmarks. As part of a network of 6 clinics across Vietnam, Picasso Dental Clinic has served over 70,000 patients and maintains a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 3,921 verified reviews.

Our dental team performs frenectomies with precision and care for patients of all ages, from newborn infants to adults. We offer both traditional and laser frenectomy options, recommending the approach best suited to each patient’s anatomy and clinical situation. All procedures follow American Dental Association (ADA) and World Health Organization (WHO) sterilization and safety protocols. Our English-speaking dentists and patient coordinators ensure clear communication for international patients throughout the entire treatment process, from initial consultation through follow-up care.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Emily Nguyen, Principal Dentist at Picasso Dental Clinic, Hanoi, Vietnam. Last updated: March 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomy in Hanoi

Is a frenectomy painful?

A frenectomy is performed under local anesthesia, so patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. Mild soreness lasting one to three days afterward is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. For infants, topical anesthetic is typically sufficient due to the limited nerve supply in the frenum.

How long does a frenectomy procedure take?

A frenectomy typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Including the initial consultation and aftercare instructions, the full appointment at Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi usually lasts about 30 minutes.

At what age can a frenectomy be performed?

A frenectomy can be performed at any age, from newborn infants with breastfeeding difficulties to adults with functional or cosmetic concerns. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry supports early intervention when tongue-tie impairs breastfeeding.

Will my child need speech therapy after tongue-tie release?

Children who have developed compensatory speech patterns due to long-standing tongue-tie may benefit from speech therapy after frenectomy to retrain tongue movements. Infants and very young children treated early typically develop normal speech without additional therapy.

Can the frenum grow back after a frenectomy?

Reattachment is uncommon when post-procedure stretching exercises are performed consistently as directed. If reattachment does occur, a simple revision procedure can be performed at our Hanoi clinic.

What is the difference between laser frenectomy and traditional frenectomy?

Laser frenectomy uses focused light energy to release the frenum, resulting in minimal bleeding, reduced need for sutures, and faster healing compared to traditional scalpel or scissor techniques. Both methods are safe and effective, and your dentist at Picasso Dental Clinic will recommend the most appropriate approach for your situation.

How much does a frenectomy cost in Hanoi, Vietnam?

A frenectomy at Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi costs between 100 and 250 USD, depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. This represents savings of 60 to 80 percent compared to the same treatment in the United States, United Kingdom, or Australia.

Is frenectomy safe for newborns?

Yes. Frenectomy is widely recognized as safe for newborns by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and other leading pediatric health organizations. The procedure is quick, well-tolerated, and most infants can breastfeed immediately afterward.

How soon after frenectomy can my baby breastfeed?

Most infants can breastfeed immediately after the procedure. Many mothers notice a significant improvement in latch and feeding efficiency within the first 24 to 48 hours following a tongue-tie release.

What are the risks of not treating tongue-tie?

Untreated tongue-tie can lead to breastfeeding difficulties, speech impediments, dental problems including gaps between teeth, difficulty eating certain foods, and potential social or psychological effects from persistent speech challenges.

Do I need a referral for a frenectomy at Picasso Dental Clinic?

No referral is required. Patients can book a frenectomy consultation directly with Picasso Dental Clinic in Hanoi. International patients can arrange appointments through our English-speaking patient coordinators via phone, email, or WhatsApp.

What stretching exercises are needed after a tongue-tie release?

Your dentist will demonstrate specific tongue-lifting and sweeping exercises to perform several times daily for two to four weeks. These exercises prevent the frenum from reattaching during healing and are essential for achieving the best long-term outcome.

Related Reading

• Gummy Smile Surgery — Another soft tissue procedure for improving smile aesthetics
• Receding Gums: Symptoms and Causes — How frenum attachments can contribute to gum recession
• Receding Gums Treatment — Gum grafting and other options for restoring the gum line
• Gum Disease: Causes and Stages — Understanding periodontal conditions that affect soft tissue
• Routine Dental Checkup — Early detection of frenum-related issues during regular exams
• Dental Care During Pregnancy — Safe dental procedures for mothers and infants
• Dental Costs in Vietnam — Affordable frenectomy pricing compared to Western countries