Ankyglossia among Population of North India-A Prevalence Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Lingual Frenulum connects the base of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Tongue-Tie (Ankyglossia) is a congenital anomaly characterized by short lingual frenulum which restricts the mobility of tongue tip. Material and Methods: This study was done to determine the prevalence of ankyglossia among the population of North India. 500 subjects of both sexes aged between 18-70 years formed the sample size. Results: The results were obtained after classification of ankyglossia by Kotlow by measuring the length of free tongue and by measuring the length of lingual frenulum (indirect method) as suggested by Ruffoli et al. Inadequate tongue mobility was seen only in subjects with lingual frenulum<0.5mm. Conclusion: It should be stated that despite the reduced length the short lingual frenum is not always inelastic or fibrotic. It may allow a normal lingual mobility hence not necessitating a reduction intervention and also the effects of ankyglossia can be mitigated by the elasticity of the floor of the mouth and help the lingual mobility.