Frenulum of lower lip

Illustration of the mouth from the Otis Archives

The Frenulum of Lower Lip is a small fold of tissue that is located in the midline of the lower lip, connecting it to the gum. It is one of the several frenula found in the human mouth, which also include the frenulum of the upper lip and the frenulum of the tongue.

Etymology

The term "frenulum" is derived from the Latin word "frenum", which means "bridle". This is a fitting description, as the frenulum of the lower lip serves to restrict the movement of the lip, much like a bridle restricts the movement of a horse's head.

Anatomy

The frenulum of the lower lip is a thin, midline fold of mucous membrane that extends from the inner surface of the lip to the gum. It is more prominent and more often observed in children than in adults. The frenulum is not a distinct anatomical structure, but rather a fold formed by the underlying connective tissue and muscles of the lip.

Clinical Significance

The frenulum of the lower lip can sometimes be the site of minor injuries, such as tears or cuts, due to its thin and delicate nature. These injuries can occur from accidental bites, falls, or sports-related incidents. In rare cases, an overly prominent or tight frenulum may interfere with the normal alignment of the teeth or the fit of dentures, a condition known as frenulum breve. This condition may require surgical intervention, such as a frenectomy, to correct.

Related Terms

• Frenulum of upper lip
• Frenulum of tongue
• Frenulum breve
• Frenectomy

See Also

• Oral anatomy
• Oral surgery

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