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Assessment and Management of Maxillary Labial Frenum—A Scoping Review

Assessment and Management of Maxillary Labial Frenum—A Scoping Review

Authors :
Ryan Kinney
Richard C. Burris
Ryan Moffat
Konstantinia Almpani
Source :
Diagnostics, Vol 14, Iss 16, p 1710 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Background: The maxillary labial frenum (MLF) is a soft tissue fold connecting the upper lip to the alveolar process. Abnormal attachment can cause periodontal, functional, and esthetic problems. Differential diagnosis is important and can prevent unnecessary interventions. This study aims to summarize the current evidence on the assessment and management of abnormal MLF. Methods: A thorough review of the literature was conducted. Five online databases were searched for relevant peer-reviewed human studies. Article screening and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Information about article type, study design, participants’ characteristics, interventions, and outcomes was extracted and synthesized. Results: 52 articles met the review criteria. MLF is a dynamic structure characterized by a wide normal morphological variation. MLF assessment in infants has not been standardized. Studies in pre-adolescents reported a change in the thickness and position of the MLF observed over time, resulting in a lower prevalence of abnormal MLF morphology. Studies in adolescents and adults reported variable differential diagnosis criteria. Lasers appear as the most advantageous frenectomy modality. Conclusions: There is a need for more objective MLF diagnostic protocols and treatment guidelines, which could prevent unnecessary surgical interventions.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14161710 and 20754418
Volume :
14
Issue :
16
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Diagnostics
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.466668a495c64594a69109d2ee04cb35
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14161710