The inferior labial frenulum, or frenulum labii inferioris (Latin, meaning "little bridle of the lower lip"). is the frenulum connecting the lower gums with the lower lip.

Frenulum of lower lip
Mouth illustration (frenulum of lower lip visible at center bottom).
Details
Identifiers
Latinfrenulum labii inferioris oris
TA98A05.1.01.011
TA22787
FMA59822
Anatomical terminology

Function

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The inferior labial frenulum, alongside the superior labial frenulum, provides stability to the upper and lower lip.[1]

Medical conditions

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Absence of the inferior labial frenulum and/or the lingual frenulum is associated with the classical and hypermobility types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, but can also be absent in those without any underlying medical conditions.[2]

Tearing of the inferior labial frenulum may occur after being bit, especially after a fall, resulting in bleeding and pain. Treatment can normally be done at home, and usually heals on its own within 3–4 days. Tearing of the inferior labial frenulum, as proven by various studies, can not be considered a sign of domestic abuse.[3]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Mintz, Sheldon M.; Siegel, Michael A.; Seider, Paul J. (March 2005). "An overview of oral frena and their association with multiple syndromic and nonsyndromic conditions". Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontics. 99 (3): 321–324. doi:10.1016/j.tripleo.2004.08.008. ISSN 1079-2104. PMID 15716839.
  2. ^ Felice, Claudio De; Toti, Paolo; Maggio, Giovanni Di; Parrini, Stefano; Bagnoli, Franco (2001-05-12). "Absence of the inferior labial and lingual frenula in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome". The Lancet. 357 (9267): 1500–1502. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(00)04661-4. ISSN 0140-6736. PMID 11377605. S2CID 24967022.
  3. ^ Welbury, Richard (2007). "Torn labial frenum in isolation not pathognomonic of physical abuse". Evidence-Based Dentistry. 8 (3): 71. doi:10.1038/sj.ebd.6400505. ISSN 1462-0049. PMID 17891120. S2CID 23656133.