Lingual frenectomy in a pediatric patient for speech deficit: a case report

Authors

Keywords:

ORAL FRENECTOMY, LINGUAL, ANKYLOGLOSSIA, PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY.

Abstract

Introduction: the lingual frenulum is an anatomical structure that joins the lower part of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, located in the midline between the central incisors. The hypertrophic lingual frenulum decreases tongue mobility and phonetic function, requiring its therapeutic management.

Objective: to report Ankyloglossia and its resolution in a pediatric patient with phonation problems, by means of frenectomy, as part of an interdisciplinary treatment.

Case presentation: an eight-year-old female patient attended a dental center because she presented difficulties in pronouncing words and moving the tongue towards the palate, which affected her social and academic development. After clinical examination, moderate ankyloglossia was diagnosed due to a short lingual frenulum. Treatment was proposed that included a lingual frenectomy with Z-plasty to improve tongue mobility, followed by speech therapy. During surgery, local anesthesia was applied, the Z-plasty was performed and sutured with simple stitches. The patient received postoperative instructions and was prescribed ibuprofen. Stitches were scheduled to be removed in 8 days and speech therapy was recommended to optimize her phonation.

Conclusion: the abnormal insertion of the lingual frenulum limited mobility and pronunciation. A frenectomy with Z-plasty was performed, improving mobility and allowing to continue with speech therapy to optimize pronunciation.

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References

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Published

2025-03-10

How to Cite

1.
Oswaldo-Damian MR, Enríquez-Herrera VG, Maigua-López WX. Lingual frenectomy in a pediatric patient for speech deficit: a case report. Rev Ciencias Médicas [Internet]. 2025 Mar. 10 [cited 2025 Nov. 8];29(1):e6699. Available from: https://revcmpinar.sld.cu/index.php/publicaciones/article/view/6699