COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT OF ANKYLOGLOSSIA AND LABIAL FRENULUM ANOMALIES: A PEDIATRIC APPROACH

Abstract

Ankyloglossia and labial frenulum anomalies are among the most frequently encountered oral soft tissue abnormalities in pediatric patients, often leading to breastfeeding difficulties, impaired speech development, malocclusion, and compromised oral hygiene. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to prevent long-term functional and developmental complications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the etiology, classification, clinical presentation, and diagnostic criteria of lingual and labial frenal anomalies in children. Furthermore, various management strategies, including conservative approaches, surgical techniques such as frenotomy and frenuloplasty, and postoperative rehabilitation protocols are discussed. Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary collaboration involving pediatricians, pediatric dentists, maxillofacial surgeons, and speech therapists to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. The review highlights current evidence-based practices and underscores the importance of individualized patient-centered care in the management of ankyloglossia and labial frenulum anomalies.