LINGUAL FRENECTOMY IN BABIES: CASE REPORT

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The lingual frenulum is composed of connective tissue rich in collagen, elastic and muscle fibers, blood vessels and fat cells, covered by stratified squamous epithelium, but when it occurs in the anteroposterior part of the gingival line or the floor of the mouth and tip of the tongue, this anomaly is called ankyloglossia. This insertion point is a determining factor for elasticity and tongue mobility, which may limit sucking, chewing, swallowing and even the production of sounds. OBJECTIVE: Describe a case report of frenectomy in a 4 month old baby with difficulty in breastfeeding, attended by the University Dental Clinic, diagnosed with the “Lingual test” in the Early Dental Care Extension Project. CASE REPORT: The child presents a short and thick lingual frenulum, opting for performing of a lingual frenectomy. CONCLUSION: The frenectomy reduced the mother’s pain with breastfeeding, improved feeding and swallowing by the child which promoted an important preventive measure to avoid future complications due to language disorders.