A frenum is a naturally-occurring muscle attachment that connects the inner aspect of the lip with the gum. A lack of attached gingiva paired with a high frenum attachment can result in recession, and an excessively large frenum can prevent the teeth from coming together, which will result in a gap between the front teeth. If pulling occurs or the frenum is so large that it prevents the teeth from coming together, the frenum is surgically released from the gum with a simple frenectomy.

If a patient will require orthodontic treatment, the removal of an abnormal frenum can increase stability and improve success of the final orthodontic result.