The Effect of (Tongue-Tie: Ankyloglossia) on Dentition and Occlusion: A Review

Authors

Suhad Mohammed Ali Sadeq, Department of Pedodontics, Orthodontics and Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Mustansiriyah University, Baghadad, IraqFollow
Sedeeq Al-Owayef, College of Dentistry, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, IraqFollow
Zena Kamel Kadhem, Department of Oral Medicine, College of Dentistry, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, IraqFollow

Corresponding Author

Ghassan Haikel Abedallah Almosa

Document Type

Review

Keywords

Ankyloglossia, Breastfeeding, Frenotomy, Tongue tie

Abstract

This review discusses definitions, complications, etiologies, diagnoses, and management of ankyloglossia. Ankyloglossia is defined as a developmental anomaly of the tongue, which occurs when the lingual frenulum attachment is too tight to the tongue. Several protocols exist for the diagnosis of this condition, including that proposed by Hazelbaker, who assessed tongue movements (seven different movements) and five appearance characteristics (Hazelbaker Assessment Tool for Lingual Frenulum Function), as well as Kotlow's classification method, which categorizes the severity of ankyloglossia through the attachment of the lingual frenulum to the tongue. In addition, scenarios suggested for case management are related to the severity of the condition, which begin with a ``wait and see'' approach as a first-line treatment for management and subsequent surgical intervention scenarios.

How to Cite This Article

Sadeq, Suhad Mohammed Ali; Al-Owayef, Sedeeq; and Kadhem, Zena Kamel (2026) "The Effect of (Tongue-Tie: Ankyloglossia) on Dentition and Occlusion: A Review," Hilla University College Journal For Medical Science: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 10.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62445/2958-4515.1101