Labial Frenum Diastema — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyAnatomy (Head & Neck)Labial Frenum DiastemaMFDS Part 1

Which clinical finding is most characteristically associated with a thick, low-attaching maxillary labial frenum?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Midline diastema between the maxillary central incisors

A thick maxillary labial frenum with a low, papillary or papilla-penetrating attachment is associated with a midline diastema between the maxillary central incisors. Frenum fibres extending towards or through the interdental papilla may contribute to persistence of the space, although other causes of diastema must also be considered. An anterior crossbite is more commonly related to incisor position or a skeletal discrepancy. Generalised mandibular spacing is anatomically unrelated to the maxillary frenum. A posterior open bite is associated with eruption disturbances or habits, while infraocclusion usually suggests ankylosis or impaired eruption rather than a frenal abnormality.

Reference: Tadros S, Ben-Dov T, Ó Catháin É, et al. Association between superior labial frenum and maxillary midline diastema: a systematic review. International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology. 2022;156:111063. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35248905/