frenum

frenum /fre·num/ (fre´num) pl. fre´na   [L.] a restraining structure or part; see frenulum. fre´nal

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fre·num (frnm)

n. pl. fre·nums or fre·na (-n)

1. A membranous fold of skin or mucous membrane that supports or restricts the movement of a part or organ, such as the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth.

2. An anatomical structure resembling such a fold.

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frenum (frē´num),

n a vertical band of oral mucosa that attaches the cheeks and lips to the alveolar mucosa of the mandibular and maxillary arches, limiting the motions of the lips and cheeks. Older term:frenulum.

Frenum.

frenum, abnormal (enlarged labial frenum),

n a labial frenum appearing to be unusually heavy, broad, or attached too near the crest of the ridge that may be an etiologic factor in periodontal disease involving the marginal gingivae.

frenum, buccal,

n the vertical band(s) of oral mucosa connecting the residual alveolar ridge to the cheek in the premolar region. They exist in both the maxillary and mandibular arches and separate the labial vestibule from the buccal vestibule.

frenum, enlarged labial,

n See frenum, abnormal.

frenum, labial,

n the vertical band of oral mucosa connecting the lip of the residual alveolar ridge near the midline of both the maxillary and mandibular arches.

frenum, lingual,

n the vertical band of oral mucosa connecting the tongue with the floor of the oral cavity and the alveolar or residual alveolar ridge. See ankyloglossia.

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frenum

pl. frena [L.] a restraining structure or part; see frenulum.