Maxillary labial frenum types in children and effects on the oral cavity: a cross-sectional study

Aim:This study aimed to evaluate the labial frenum types and effects on diastema, caries, and gingival health in children. Materials and Methods:The study included 500 children(50.2% girls, 49.8% boys) aged 3-14 years. MLF types were classified according to the Mirko classification, and the gingival index score was performed according to the Löe-Silness classification.Dentition periods, presence of anterior caries, and diastema widths were saved. Results:There was no statistically significant difference between the genders in terms of MLF types.The most common frenum type was gingival type frenum(48%),followed by papillary type (30%) and papillary penetrating type(16%).The gingival frenum type was significantly higher in the older age group.Among the 291 patients with diastema, the papillary penetrating type was significantly higher in those with 2-4 mm diastema significant correlation was found between frenum type and the presence of caries between the anterior teeth. Conclusion:Frenums can cause gingival recession, midline diastema, dental caries, and gingival disease.