Treatment of ankyloglossia with dental laser in paediatric patients: Scoping review and a case report

Abstract

Aim: The two aims of this article were to conduct a scoping review of current knowledge regarding laser treatment of ankyloglossia in children and to report a case of a male paediatric patient with ankyloglossia treated with laser surgery.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out on the following electronic databases: PubMed; Embase; Google Scholar; The Cochrane Library, and Dentistry and Oral Science Source (EBSCO).

Results: The initial search identified 278 references. After the process of title/abstract screening, 61 articles received a full-text reading; finally, 17 articles were selected. According to this scoping literature review, lingual frenulectomy managed with laser surgery provides a more efficient and comfortable treatment for both the paediatric patient and the dentist compared with conventional scalpel/blades/suturing techniques. Nevertheless, further high-quality studies on the clinical efficacy of laser devices for lingual frenulectomy in paediatric populations are required.

Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of ankyloglossia are fundamental for the adequate functional oral development of paediatric patients. Laser surgery for lingual frenulectomy provides a more efficient and comfortable treatment for both the child and the paediatric dentist compared to traditional scalpel/blade methods.