A frenum, also known as a frenulum, is a band of fibrous tissue that helps anchor or restrict the movement of structures in the body. In the mouth, there are several frena, most notably the labial frenum (between the upper lip and the gums) and the lingual frenum (underneath the tongue). Under normal circumstances, these frena should be positioned well below the gingival margin (the line where the gums meet the teeth), allowing for free movement of the lips and tongue without affecting the surrounding gum tissue. However, in some cases, the frenum may be abnormally positioned, causing what is known as an aberrant frenum. When a frenum is positioned too close to the neck of the tooth—near the gumline—it can cause several issues. The tension from the frenum can pull on the gum tissue, potentially receding the gumline or preventing the gums from properly attaching to the tooth. This can lead to increased plaque accumulation in the area, as the frenum may create a space that is difficult to clean. Additionally, an aberrant frenum can interfere with orthodontic treatment by preventing the proper closure of gaps between the teeth or disrupting the alignment of the gums and teeth during braces treatment.

A frenectomy is a simple and effective procedure to address an aberrant frenum. The procedure involves the removal or repositioning of the frenum attachment to reduce its pull on the gum tissue. A frenectomy is typically performed in the dental office under local anesthesia, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The procedure itself is quick, with most frenectomies taking only a few minutes to complete. After the frenum is removed, the tissue is usually sutured, and the area heals within a few days. The benefits of a frenectomy include improved gum health, as the removal of the frenum reduces the risk of gum recession, enhances plaque control, and allows for better results with orthodontic treatments. Additionally, the procedure can eliminate discomfort or tension caused by an overly tight frenum and help restore proper gum attachment, improving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the mouth.