An Alternative Method to Treat Ankyloglossia

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Ankyloglossia, characterized by a short lingual frenum, restricts tongue movement.
• This restriction can lead to difficulties in feeding, swallowing (deglutition), and speech (diction).
• Traditional surgical intervention involves a scalpel, which can be invasive.

Observation:

• A 9-year-old child diagnosed with ankyloglossia underwent lingual frenulotomy using high-intensity diode laser technology.
• This approach was investigated as a conservative and less traumatic alternative to conventional surgical methods.
• The laser procedure was performed to address the functional limitations caused by the short lingual frenum.

Findings:

• Laser frenulotomy provided a bloodless surgical field, eliminating the need for sutures.
• The procedure resulted in minimal post-surgical swelling and reduced patient discomfort.
• High-intensity diode laser technology proved effective for soft tissue procedures.

Implications:

• Laser frenulotomy represents a viable, less traumatic alternative for treating ankyloglossia.
• This technique offers significant advantages, including reduced pain and faster recovery.
• The findings support the adoption of laser technology in pediatric dental and oral surgery.