Z plasty – an esthetic approach to frenectomy: Case report

Introduction: The endless quest for harmony of the smile has indeed led to great advances in Dentistry. Developmental abnormalities frequently occur, particularly diastemas. During the treatment of these abnormalities, such as the pathological labial frenum, some obstacles may be encountered, which may not only favor their appearance, but may also make it difficult to establish the prognosis of the case if the frenectomy is not correctly performed. Aim: The aim of this study was to present a clinical case of maxillary labial frenectomy by means of th Z-plasty technique. Case Report The patient, a 22-year-old woman, used an orthodontic appliance and had a pathological labial frenum. After being evaluated, her therapeutic planning was determined. This included frenectomy performed using the Z-plasty technique, with the intention of diminishing the appearance of a scar, and preventing recurrence of the diastema after conclusion of the orthodontic treatment. Conclusion: Although frenectomy is considered a simple method, there is wide variation among the technique for removal of the hypertrophic frenum. The Z pattern is efficient because it promotes redistribution of the tension in the skin, and minimizes scar formation.