A frenum is a naturally occurring soft tissue attachment, normally seen between the upper or lower front teeth, and may be seen further back in the mouth. It connects the inner aspect of the lips or cheeks with the gum. A high frenum attachment (one that is closer to the chewing surface of the teeth), which can create excessive pull on the gum margin in conjunction with a lack of attached gingiva may result in gum recession. Additionally, an excessively large frenum can prevent the teeth from coming together, resulting in a gap between the front teeth. If Dr. Noraian sees pulling or that the frenum is too large to allow the teeth to come together, he will surgically remove the frenum from the gum with a frenectomy. A frenectomy is simply the surgical removal of a frenum, and Dr. Noraian may use the PerioLase MVP-7 Nd:YAG laser to perform this procedure without bleeding, stitches or a scalpel.
Through planned or initiated orthodontic treatment, the removal of an abnormal frenum, with or without a gingival graft can increase stability and improve success of the final orthodontic result.