Understanding Mandibular Lingual Frenum & Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia)

The mandibular lingual frenum is a thin tissue fold connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, located behind the lower front teeth. It normally allows full tongue mobility. Ankyloglossia (tongue-tie) occurs when the frenum is unusually short, thick, or tight, restricting tongue movement. This can affect breastfeeding, speech, oral hygiene, and eating. Treatment may include frenotomy (snipping) or frenuloplasty, often performed by a dentist, ENT, or pediatrician.