23/02/2026
Ankyloglossia has long been described as simply a “tight frenulum.” That definition is incomplete.
In our 2025 publication, we define ankyloglossia as restricted tongue mobility caused by tethered oral tissues that contributes to broader orofacial myofunctional dysfunction.
This shift matters.
Tongue restriction is not just structural. It interacts with breathing, swallowing, speech, craniofacial growth, posture, and neuromuscular compensation. When we define the condition correctly, we diagnose and treat it more precisely.
Our updated definition reflects a whole-system, airway-centered model grounded in functional assessment, therapy integration, and refined surgical technique when indicated.
Read the full study to understand how this evolution changes clinical care.
https://www.mdpi.com/2694-2526/51/2/11
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