Evaluation of Association Between High Frenal Attachment and Severity of Midline Diastema

Abstract

Introduction: A "midline diastema" arises when there is a space of more than 0.5 millimeters between the proximal surfaces of two consecutive teeth. There is usually open space between the two central incisors. Depending on its width, a midline diastema can make speaking difficult and look unsightly.  Genetic factors, large tongues, improper tongue positioning during rest or function, microdontia or hypodontia of upper lateral incisors, extra teeth between upper central incisors, particularly mesiodens, aberrant frenal attachment, periodontal disease, and extra teeth are some of the multifactorial causes of midline diastema. The aim of this study is to assess the association between high frenal attachment and the severity of midline diastema. Materials and method: The study involved 126 patients. We assessed the frequency of high frenal attachment and midline diastema in these patients. The Chi square test was used to examine the data in the SPSS Software. Results and discussion: The current study has arrived at a positive correlation between the frenal attachment type and the severity of the midline diastema space. Midline diastema might be transitory or result from pathogenic, developmental, or iatrogenic reasons. Treatment options for diastema vary, and each one calls for an accurate etiology diagnosis and prompt action appropriate to that etiology. A correct diagnosis needs radiographic and clinical examination, medical and dental history, and perhaps tooth size assessment. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that there is a positive correlation between the frenal attachment type and the severity of midline diastema space. It was also observed that the most common frenal attachment type was papillary type and the space more commonly was 2-3 mm in length.