Ankyloglossia in an infant: case report

Abstract

This work consists of a case report that aims to describe the interdisciplinary approach carried out on an infant diagnosed with ankyloglossia. Infant, male, 3 months old attended for dental care at a Private Higher Education Institution, Serra, ES; accompanied by their guardian. He was referred by Speech Therapy at the State Hospital for Children and Maternity, Vila Velha, Espírito Santo (ES); with a suggestive indication for lingual frenectomy. The referral states score 8 from the 'Tongue Frenulum Assessment Protocol in Babies', difficulty latching on, weight gain, pain in the mother's nipple and tearing. On examination, the suction showed absence of pressure and tongue coupling. The frenulum presented a short insertion at the lingual apex, and the tongue was low in the oral cavity. It presented a score of 0 in the evaluation using the “Bristol Protocol”. The frenotomy was performed using the conventional technique by a qualified professional and in the postoperative period, low-intensity laser therapy was used. After 6 months, the baby returned with weight gain, assertive latch-on, without compensation and release of tongue movements. The multidisciplinary approach enabled the early diagnosis of ankyloglossia. The decision to perform frenotomy was based on the anatomy of the frenulum and functional limitations during breastfeeding. Surgery proved to be an effective intervention to correct ankyloglossia, and in this case it brought anatomical and tongue mobility gains. Continuing follow-up with the speech therapist and observing the baby's progress and development is necessary to ensure long-term success.

Keywords: ankyloglossia. oral frenectomy. breast feeding. Infant. infant, newborn.