title: Lingual frenectomy: functional evaluation and new therapeutical approach.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  When ankyloglossia is relatively severe and generates mechanical limitations and functional challenges,  surgical reduction of the frenum is indicated.
  
  
  METHODS
  Laser technique is an innovative, safe and  effective therapy for frenectomy in both children and adolescents. Erbium:YAG laser (2940nm) can be useful for paediatric  dentist: 1.5W at 20pps is a commonly used average power to easily, safely and quickly cut the frenum.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Usually  after laser frenectomy, the postoperative symptoms and relapse are absent.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Early intervention is advisable to  reduce the onset of alterations correlated to the ankyloglossia. A multidisciplinary approach to the problem is advisable, in  collaboration with orthodontist, physiotherapist and speech therapist, to better resolve the problem.
authors: University of Genoa, Department of Surgical Science (DISC) Master Course Laser in Dentistry, Genoa, Italy. olivi.g@tiscali.it
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Olivi
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Signore
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Olivi
authors: M D
authors: MD
authors: Genovese
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000627:therapeutic use; D053844:Lasers, Solid-State / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008035:Lingual Frenum / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000601:surgery*; D008141:Lordosis / Q000209:etiology; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000209:etiology; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011187:Posture; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D014060:Tongue Diseases / Q000209:etiology