Comparative Analysis of Consequences Associated with Posterior-Type Ankyloglossia in infants

Ankyloglossia is a congenital condition characterized by a restrictive lingual frenulum that may interfere with oral function and breastfeeding. Although anterior tongue-tie has historically received most clinical attention, posterior forms may also play an important role in breastfeeding difficulties and early orofacial development. To analyze the clinical manifestations associated with different posterior types of ankyloglossia in infants according to the FreLac classification. prospective observational study including 285 infants aged 0–6 months evaluated between 2023 and 2024 in a level IV hospital in Barcelona (Spain). Infants were classified according to the FreLac classification into mixed, posterior, and mucosal types of ankyloglossia. Maternal symptoms, infant feeding signs, and orofacial developmental features were recorded and recorded and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Posterior and mucosal types of ankyloglossia showed higher prevalence of breastfeeding-related symptoms, including nipple pain, fissures, aerophagia, clicking sounds, and post-feed regurgitation. These types also showed higher prevalence of signs associated with altered orofacial development such as high-arched palate and mandibular retrognathia. Posterior forms of ankyloglossia appear to be associated with a higher prevalence of clinically relevant breastfeeding difficulties and functional alterations. These findings support the importance of evaluating posterior tongue mobility in infants presenting with breastfeeding difficulties.