Lingual Frenectomy
Individuals, often infants, with restricted tongue movement may benefit from a procedure that releases a thin fold of tissue under the tongue called the lingual frenulum.
Overview
The lingual frenulum is a thin fold of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. While everyone has a lingual frenulum, this small piece of tissue can sometimes cause problems with tongue movement. This condition is called tongue tie or ankyloglossia. To address this problem, the frenulum can be cut during a procedure called frenotomy or removed entirely by a procedure called frenectomy or frenulectomy. In some patients with ankyloglossia, tongue release procedures can help with feeding, articulation, and tongue movement.
What is a tongue release procedure?
Lingual frenotomy is a procedure in which the frenulum is cut to correct the restriction of tongue movement caused by a frenulum that is too short or tight. The procedure is performed under either local or general anesthesia and can be done using various techniques, including with scissors, laser, or electrocautery. The choice of technique depends on the patient's specific condition and the surgeon's expertise. No method has been definitively shown to be more effective than the others. The frenulum can also be removed in a procedure called frenectomy or frenulectomy.
Who is a tongue release procedure for?
It is for patients who have restricted tongue movement, resulting in functional problems. Those who typically benefit include:
- Infants who have difficulty feeding/latching
- Moms who experience pain during breastfeeding
- Toddlers or even adults who have difficulty with speech, particularly articulating certain sounds
- Individuals who have orthodontic problems associated with tongue positioning
While tongue release procedures can be performed on patients of any age, the procedure and recovery considerations may differ between infants, children, and adults. Typically, the tissue heals in 2-7 days.
Benefits
Tongue release procedures offer several potential benefits, including:
Improved Tongue Mobility: Significantly increases the range of motion of the tongue
Enhanced Speech: Can improve pronunciation and articulation
Better Feeding: Can help resolve latching/feeding problems in infants
Improved Oral Hygiene: Allows better tongue movement for cleaning teeth and mouth
Long-term Relief: Provides a durable solution to tongue-tie-related issues
Procedure Details
How is a tongue release procedure performed?
These procedures can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The steps of the procedure include:
- Anesthesia Administration: The patient receives either local or general anesthesia
- Oral Examination: The surgeon examines the lingual frenum and tongue mobility
- Frenulum Release: The lingual frenum is cut or removed using one of several techniques
- Bleeding Control: Any bleeding is controlled using various methods
- Recovery: The patient is moved to the recovery area for monitoring
Recovery & Outlook
Recovery Time
Recovery time can vary, but generally:
- Initial Recovery: Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days
- Complete Healing: typically within a week
During this time, patients/parents should follow their doctor's instructions for oral care
What to Expect During Recovery
- Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain, typically manageable with prescribed medications. Babies can return to breast feeding the same day.
- Swelling: Some swelling under the tongue for a few days
- Eating Adjustments: In non-infant patients, soft diet for a few days
- Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor
Long-term Outlook After Tongue Release Procedures
Most patients experience significant improvement in their tongue mobility after the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When can one eat normally after lingual frenectomy?
Infants can return to breast feeding immediately. Older patients start with soft foods for 2-3 days, or as directed by your doctor. Gradually return to your normal diet as comfort allows, but avoid spicy, acidic, or hard foods until fully healed.
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How long does a tongue release procedure take?
Frenotomy typically takes seconds or minutes as it is usually performed with scissors or electrocautery. During a frenectomy/frenulectomy, the frenulum is actually removed, and the procedure can take longer.
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Will tongue release procedures improve speech?
In patients who have an articulation problem specifically related to restricted tongue movement, the procedure can be very helpful. A consultation with a speech therapist is recommended in order to help determine which patients would benefit from the procedure, as all speech problems are not related to tongue-tie. Many children benefit from speech therapy even after successful surgery.
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When will I notice improved tongue mobility after lingual frenectomy?
While some patients notice immediate improvement, most experience optimal results after the initial healing occurs, typically within 1-2 weeks.
Patients and parents considering a tongue release procedure should consult an oral surgeon, ENT specialist, or dentist to discuss their symptoms and medical history and determine if the procedure is the right option. In infants, consultation with a lactation consultant is recommended and in kids, consultation with a speech therapist is important before proceeding.
While lingual frenotomy and lingual frenectomy/frenulectomy are standard and generally safe procedures, it is essential to understand the potential risks and benefits before moving forward.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Davis
Written by
Breathe Clear Institute Editorial Team
Posted on
June 4, 2024