Frenectomy

A lack of gum tissue is sometimes associated with a high muscle attachment, called a frenum. The frenum exaggerates the pull on the gum margin. A frenum is a naturally occurring muscle attachment, normally seen between the front teeth (either upper or lower). It is normal to have a frenum, but it should not pull on the gum margin or recession will occur. If pulling is seen the frenum is surgically released from the gum with a frenectomy procedure. Often this can be performed with a laser for a relatively pain free procedure In certain instances a gum graft is placed in conjunction with a frenectomy procedure to re-establish an adequate amount of gum tissue. Click to view Before and After examples in our Photo Gallery!