Frenectomy in Northville
A frenum — extra gum and tissue between the upper front teeth — is a common reason for a noticeable gap between the front teeth. At The Practice of Periodontist Samir Zakaria, DDS, MSD, we offer frenectomy to correct it and help close that gap for good.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy removes excess frenum tissue between the teeth. Timing matters: unless the tissue is removed before permanent teeth fully come in, a gap between the front teeth will typically remain even after the procedure.
How We Plan Your Treatment
After a thorough examination, we’ll discuss the best time to perform your frenectomy based on your dental development and goals. In some cases, braces may be recommended first to pull the teeth together before the procedure, and a retainer may be used afterward to help hold the teeth in their new position. Every plan is tailored to the specific gap and tissue involved.
Giving You a Smile You’re Proud Of
Our goal is a smile you feel confident about, whether that means a frenectomy alone or in combination with orthodontic treatment for a more complete result. If you’re also dealing with related cosmetic concerns, our cosmetic periodontal surgery page covers other ways we help patients achieve the smile they want.
Browse Dr. Zakaria’s before-and-after book to see the kind of results achievable, or check our Facebook and Instagram pages for more photos.
If you have questions about frenectomies or want to discuss closing the gap between your teeth, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (734) 542-9904.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a frenum, and why does it cause a gap between teeth?
A frenum is a band of extra tissue between the upper front teeth. When it’s too large or positioned too low, it can prevent the front teeth from coming together fully, creating a visible gap.
Is a frenectomy painful?
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to keep it comfortable, and most patients experience only mild soreness during recovery.
Will removing the frenum close my gap automatically?
Not always. If permanent teeth have already fully erupted with a gap in place, orthodontic treatment such as braces may be needed alongside the frenectomy to close it.
When is the best time to have a frenectomy?
Timing depends on your specific dental development, which is why a thorough examination is done first to determine the best approach for your case.
Will I need a retainer after the procedure?
In some cases, yes, a retainer helps hold the teeth in their new position after the gap has been closed.
Can a frenectomy be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, it’s often combined with orthodontic treatment or other cosmetic periodontal procedures to achieve a complete, balanced result.
How do I get started?
Call (734) 542-9904 to schedule an examination so we can discuss your specific gap and recommend the right treatment timeline.
