Evaluation of Median Maxillary Labial Frenum Type and Morphology in Different Age Groups

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study is to evaluate the median maxillary labial frenum (MMLF) type and morphology and its associations with age and gender. 
 Patients and Methods: The present study was conducted on 1023 patients who attended to University Child and Adult Dental Clinic. Patients were divided into five age groups. The MMLF type and morphology of the patients were evaluated under dental unit light and classified according to the criterias described by Mirko et al. and Sewerin. 
 Results: 1023 patients included in the study, 51.4% (524) were male and 49.9% (498) were female. In all groups, gingival type (55.2%) frenum was the most frequently observed MMLF type, while simple frenum (66.9%) was the most frequently observed MMLF morphology. Papillar and papillar penetration types were observed more frequently in GI, GII and GIII groups compared to the GIV and GV groups. Persistent tectolabial type frenum was observed in only 3 patients in GI group and was not observed in any of the age groups. Although there were no significant differences were observed between MMLF type and gender, there were significant differences between MMLF type and age. MMLF is a small anatomical process yet it differs in type and morphology. It can be concluded that, with aging, the MMLF attachment level shifts from coronal to a more apical level.
 Conclusions: The present study showed that, dental practitioners should be aware of the MMLF type and morphology variations in order to avoid excessive treatment especially in young patients.