When to consider soft tissue surgeries
If you are experiencing any of the following concerns, schedule a consultation so Dr Truong can perform a thorough assessment and recommend the most predictable solution.
- Restricted tongue movement affecting speech or feeding
- Tight labial frenum causing gap between front teeth
- Persistent ulcers, white patches, or unexplained lesions
- Swelling or lumps in the oral soft tissues
Treatment steps
Step 1: Clinical assessment
Thorough examination to assess the condition, functional impact, and need for surgical intervention or biopsy.
Step 2: Procedure planning
Discussion of anaesthesia options, expected outcomes, and coordination with referring dentists or orthodontists.
Step 3: Surgical procedure
Frenectomies release restrictive tissue with precise incisions. Biopsies remove tissue samples for laboratory analysis.
Step 4: Healing and results
Most soft tissue procedures heal within 1–2 weeks. Biopsy results are communicated promptly to guide further management.
Recovery timeline
- Mild discomfort and swelling for 2–3 days, managed with simple analgesics.
- Soft diet recommended for the first 24–48 hours.
- Gentle oral hygiene around the surgical site.
- For frenectomies, stretching exercises may be prescribed to prevent reattachment.
Risks & precautions
- Minor bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
- Temporary swelling or bruising.
- Rare reattachment of frenum tissue requiring revision.
- Emotional impact from biopsy results—support is available.
Follow-up advice
- Biopsy patients will receive a call with results and next steps within 7–10 days.
Next steps
Book a consultation to review imaging, discuss sedation options, and plan a treatment timeline that aligns with your goals. Second opinions are welcome and referrals are not required for patients seeking advice.
Helpful resources:
- Oral pathology consultations — For further investigation of concerning lesions.