The lip band (frenulum) usually attach from the lip to both the middle of the front teeth and to the premolars.
- It may be necessary to remove the lip band as it can pull so much into the gums that the gums retract and the tooth becomes longer.
- With braces, it is also removed to help close the gap between the front teeth.
- Patients with dentures can be bothered by it, as the band can move and then loosen the denture when the patient’s lip moves.
- Removal has no negative effect on either lip or mouth.
- Frenectomy takes about 15-20 minutes including anesthesia. Self-dissolving stitches are used.