Abstract

GOMES, Erissandra; ARAUJO, Fernando Borba de  and  RODRIGUES, Jonas de Almeida. Lingual frenulum: interdisciplinary clinical approach of Speech Terapy and Pediatric Dentistry. Rev. Assoc. Paul. Cir. Dent. [online]. 2015, vol.69, n.1, pp. 20-24. ISSN 0004-5276.

Introduction: The lingual frenulum is an important anatomic structure involved in the act of suction, speech and feeding. A short and adhered frenulum limits the tongue movement and therefore, can cause anatomic and functional impacts in the patient. Aim: The aim of this case report is to show, with an interdisciplinary approach, strategies implemented by the Speech Therapy and Pediatric Dentistry for alterations in a lingual frenulun of a child with speech problems. This alteration was diagnosed and the treatment plan defined by both professionals and the frenectomy was conducted. Speech therapist followed up the patient in order to provide global treatment. Conclusion: Surgical procedure, conducted by the pediatric dentist improved tongue mobility, however speech alterations still were present after the intervention, emphasizing the need of a speech monitoring and therapy.

Keywords : surgery; oral; frenum; pediatric dentistry; speech; language and hearing sciences; myofunctional therapy..