Frenulum of tongue

Frenulum of the tongue, also known as the lingual frenulum, is a small fold of mucous membrane that extends from the floor of the mouth to the midline of the underside of the tongue. It is of clinical significance due to its role in tongue mobility and its involvement in conditions such as ankyloglossia (tongue-tie), which can affect feeding, speech, and oral hygiene.

Anatomy

The frenulum of the tongue is a median fold that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth, stabilizing it and limiting its motion. It is composed of connective tissue, including collagen fibers, which provide it with strength and flexibility. The frenulum's position and length can vary significantly among individuals. In some cases, a short or tight frenulum may restrict tongue movement, a condition referred to as ankyloglossia.

Function

The primary function of the frenulum of the tongue is to support the tongue's movements and maintain its position within the oral cavity. It plays a crucial role in activities such as swallowing, sucking, and speech. The frenulum helps to coordinate the complex movements required for these activities, ensuring that the tongue can move freely without being overextended.

Clinical Significance

• Ankyloglossia: Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie, is a condition characterized by an abnormally short, thick, or tight frenulum, which restricts the tongue's movement. This can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding in infants, as well as challenges with speech, eating, and oral hygiene in older children and adults.
• Frenectomy: A frenectomy is a surgical procedure to correct ankyloglossia. It involves the removal or modification of the lingual frenulum to free the tongue's movement. This procedure can significantly improve feeding, speech, and oral hygiene in affected individuals.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: The diagnosis of issues related to the frenulum of the tongue typically involves a physical examination and assessment of the tongue's mobility. Treatment may include exercises to improve tongue mobility, speech therapy, or surgical intervention, such as a frenectomy, depending on the severity of the condition and the symptoms presented.

See Also

• Oral anatomy
• Speech therapy
• Pediatric surgery