Evaluation of Tongue Mobility in Patients with Ankyloglossia Following Frenectomy: A Before and After Clinical Study

Introduction: We aimed to assess the improvement in tongue mobility following frenectomy in ankyloglossia patients. Methods: Tongue mobility was measured before and 3 months after frenectomy using the quantitative tongue test ruler. Parameters evaluated included the Kotlow index and tongue protrusion and retrusion. Data were assessed using a paired-sample t -test. Results: A total of 36 patients, aged 6–33 years, were included. Pre vs. postoperation comparisons showed significant differences for the Kotlow index ( P < 0.001, Effect Size (Cohen’s d ): 1.87, anterior mobility ( P < 0.001, effect size [Cohen’s d ]: 1.48), and posterior mobility ( P < 0.001, effect size [Cohen’s d ]: 1.75). Conclusion: The findings demonstrated that frenectomy improves tongue mobility in both protrusion and retrusion.