Management of Aberrant Frenum and Gingival Overgrowth in Orthodontic Patients: A Case Report

Abstract

The frenum, a fold of mucous membrane, connects the lip and cheek to the alveolar mucosa, gingiva, and underlying periosteum. When the frenum is positioned excessively near the gingival margin, it has the potential to compromise gingival health, impeding plaque control efforts and inducing muscular stress. A frenectomy is a commonly employed corrective measure for anomalous frenum attachments. In a recent clinical case, a 21-year-old female patient was referred from the Department of Orthodontics to the Department of Periodontics due to a papillary-type aberrant labial frenum attachment and excessive gingival tissue surrounding the upper right and left central incisors. The patient underwent a frenectomy, gingivectomy, and gingivoplasty procedures under local anesthesia to address the abnormal frenum attachment and gingival overgrowth using a scalpel. This approach has been demonstrated to yield optimal outcomes in orthodontic therapy for patients exhibiting elevated frenum attachment and gingival overgrowth. Following the achievement of hemostasis, a periodontal pack was applied to facilitate healing and preserve the soft tissue.