Decoding the Buccal Frenum: A Multidisciplinary Insight
The Source Article Details
The buccal frenum: Trends in diagnosis and indications for treatment of buccal-ties among 466 healthcare professionals by Richard Baxter et al. in 2023.
The Source Article's Abstract
Background
The buccal frenum is connective tissue that adheres the mucosa of the cheek to the alveolar process. When restricted, this condition is commonly known as a buccal- or cheek-tie. Restrictive buccal frena are often treated during tongue- and lip-tie procedures, yet widely accepted classification, diagnostic and treatment guidelines are lacking.
Objective
Provide a scoping review on the evaluation and management of buccal-ties, including diagnosis, classification, symptoms and treatment, by surveying healthcare providers with experience evaluating and managing oral restrictions.
Methods
Literature review and IRB-approved survey to assess practice patterns among healthcare providers identified from online directories of tongue-tie release providers and associated allied health professionals.
Results
A multidisciplinary group of 466 providers responded. About 87% indicated that they assess buccal restrictions. Evaluation methods included finger sweep (89.1%), visual inspection (76.4%), tissue blanching (66.5%) and functional assessment (53.4%). Around 94% of providers reported that objective and subjective findings are both needed for diagnosis and that an estimated 5%-10% of infants may be affected. About 70% of providers release buccal-ties (if needed) simultaneously with tongue-ties, and 76.8% recommend post-operative stretches as necessary for optimal healing.
The Source Article References
- Clinical anatomy of the frenulum of the oral vestibule by Iwanaga J, 2017 in Cureus
- Short lingual frenum in infants, children and adolescents. Part 1: breastfeeding and gastroesophageal reflux disease improvement after tethered oral tissues release by Hand P, 2020 in Eur J Paediatr Dent
- Oral diagnosis of abnormal frenum attachments in neonates and infants: evaluation and treatment of the maxillary and lingual frenum using the Erbium: YAG laser by Kotlow LA, 2004 in J Pediatr Dent Care
Citing the Source Article (APA)
Baxter, R., Merkel-Walsh, R., Lahey, L., Knutsen, C., Zaghi, S. (2023). The buccal frenum: Trends in diagnosis and indications for treatment of buccal-ties among 466 healthcare professionals. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, . 10.1111/joor.13609
The Quest for Standardization
The article, “The buccal frenum: Trends in diagnosis and indications for treatment of buccal-ties among 466 healthcare professionals”, delves into a topic that has long been a subject of debate within the medical community. It aims to provide a scoping review on the evaluation and management of buccal-ties.
One of the most striking findings is the lack of widely accepted classification, diagnostic, and treatment guidelines. This gap in standardization is a significant concern and calls for immediate attention from the healthcare community.
Methods and Findings: A Snapshot
- Evaluation Methods: Finger sweep, visual inspection, tissue blanching, and functional assessment.
- Diagnosis: Both objective and subjective findings are crucial.
- Treatment: 70% of providers release buccal-ties simultaneously with tongue-ties.
The article is based on an IRB-approved survey involving 466 healthcare providers. About 87% of these providers assess buccal restrictions, emphasizing the significance of this issue.
Implications for the Medical Profession
The article’s findings have several implications for the medical profession, particularly for those in oral health and pediatrics. The need for standardized guidelines is evident, and the article serves as a foundational cornerstone for future works to build upon.
Moreover, the article highlights the need for further research, evidence-based assessments, and treatment protocols. These are essential steps towards improving patient care and outcomes.
Your Thoughts?
We’ve covered the key points of this thought-provoking article. What are your thoughts on the need for standardized guidelines for diagnosing and treating buccal-ties?
Feel free to share your insights and experiences below. Your input could be invaluable in shaping future research and guidelines.