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

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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.

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