Lingual Frenuloplasty for Ankyloglossia in Children

Tongue is an important oral structure that affects speech, position of teeth, periodontal tissue, nutrition, swallowing, nursing, and certain social activities. Tongue-tie or ankyloglossia is a developmental anomaly of the tongue, characterized by an abnormally short, thick lingual frenulum resulting in limited tongue movement. Diagnosis must include functional assessment of tongue mobility, in addition to the physical appearance of the frenulum. Tongue mobility and appearance associated with the insertion, as well as the attachment and the shortness of the lingual frenulum should be evaluated. Ankyloglossia management should be considered at any age considering the risk-benefit evaluation and because of the highest vascularization and mobility of the tongue. Lingual frenuloplasty for the management of ankyloglossia in children is being discussed in the form of case series.