Is a frenectomy standard with braces now? when i had braces 25 years ago, i had never heard of a frenectomy. now our son is going to have one done, and most of his friends who had braces also had them done. when did these become so common? are they necess

A : A frenectomy is often used to remove some of the tissue between the upper front teeth to help the space stay closed following orthodontic space closure. If by "standard" you mean are they done in every case, then no. Recommending one as an adjunct to orthodontic treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis only. Speaking to your orthodontist if you have any questions should help clarify the reason.

Frenectomy : Frenectomy is rarely necessary and like any other surgical procedure has risks. I would advise a second opinion.

A : A frenectomy is performed prior to orthodontia to remove tissue which would complicate or impede the repositioning of the teeth as part of the orthodontic plan. The band of collagen tissue which commonly exists between the upper from teeth causes a gap like the one made so famous by lauren hutton. There is nothing wrong with having a space between the front teeth, but is has become popular to correct natural mid-line spacing ( median diastema) to conform with what has been popularized as the normal average dental alignment. The popularization of the apparently perfect smile ocurred with the advent of the sliver screen when film star made fashionable a whole new look of what we now consider beautiful. Since then the dental schools, particularly those in california have been turning out dentists who specialize in beautiful cosmetic and durable dental treatment which is catching on world wide. Dr neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Occasionally: Frenal attachments are connective tissue bands that connect the cheek or lips to the gums. The most common frenum to be cut is the upper central one (maxillary median frenectomy). On occasion this tissue can descend down and even through the teeth to the palate. I rarely use the procedure, but over 90% of the time I have the tissue resected after closure, that way scar tissue does not prevent it.

Certainly: A "maxillary midline frenectomy" is a common, simple procedure to remove a ankylosed or "tight" muscle attachment or frenum that may extend between the two upper front teeth. The frenum can be problematic in keeping the space (diastema) closed. If prescribed, it's a procedure that is well worth doing.

Common: Frenectomy between upper front teeth common but not "standard." it's used for pts who have excess gum tissue between teeth to hop prevent teeth from popping apart after braces. If orthodontist thinks your son may need one, have him checked by a periodontist (as opposed to oral surgeon) to asses viability of procedure for your son. Ask periodontist to also ck the before braces x-rays & picts.