Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 10, 2026

Technique to Collect Fungiform (Taste) Papillae from Human Tongue
09:39

Technique to Collect Fungiform (Taste) Papillae from Human Tongue

Published on: September 18, 2010

[Short lingual frenulum]

Tuomas Klockars1

  • 1HYKS, korva-, nenä ja kurkkutautien klinikka ja Helsingin yliopisto.

Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja
|June 22, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Short lingual frenulum, a common condition in newborns, can affect tongue movement and lead to breastfeeding issues. In older children, it may cause speech impediments, necessitating intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Pediatrics

Context:

  • Short lingual frenulum is a frequent congenital anomaly affecting up to 4% of newborns.
  • The precise causes of this condition remain unclear.
  • Restricted tongue mobility due to a short frenulum can lead to functional impairments.

Purpose:

  • To describe the clinical implications of a short lingual frenulum.
  • To outline the age-dependent indications for therapeutic intervention.

Summary:

  • A short lingual frenulum (ankyloglossia) is a structural abnormality impacting tongue function.
  • In infants, the primary concern is often breastfeeding difficulties.
  • In older children, defective pronunciation is a common indication for treatment.

Impact:

  • Early identification and management of short lingual frenulum can prevent long-term feeding and speech problems.
  • Understanding the prevalence and consequences aids in clinical assessment and parental guidance.

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