Abstract
Oral soft-tissue restrictions in newborns and infants, including ankyloglossia and other lesions, may interfere with effective breastfeeding, tongue mobility, swallowing, and the physiological development of the orofacial structures. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are therefore essential to restore function and support normal orofacial development. Laser technology has emerged as a valuable tool for the management of these conditions due to its precision and favorable postoperative course.
To evaluate the clinical application, predictability, and postoperative outcomes of laser-assisted soft-tissue surgery in newborns and infants presenting with oral soft-tissue restrictions that may compromise breastfeeding or normal orofacial function.
A comprehensive pediatric oral examination was performed before treatment to assess tongue mobility, oral anatomy, functional restrictions, and the suitability of each patient for surgical intervention. Different laser wavelengths were selected according to the clinical indication, including diode lasers of 450 nm, 940 nm, and 980 nm, and an Er,Cr laser of 2780 nm. Clinical protocols included appropriate infant positioning and stabilization techniques, protective eyewear adapted for infants and clinical staff, topical anesthesia when indicated, and the use of hyaluronic acid gel as part of postoperative care.
In our clinical experience of more than 300 treated cases, laser-assisted soft-tissue surgery demonstrated a high degree of clinical predictability and effective intraoperative management. The procedures allowed precise tissue management with favorable postoperative healing and good clinical tolerance. The use of laser technology facilitated the management of delicate oral structures in very young patients and contributed to a controlled postoperative period. Clinical improvement in tongue mobility and breastfeeding function was observed in appropriately selected patients.
Laser-assisted treatment of oral soft-tissue restrictions can be a valuable clinical tool in newborns and infants. When combined with comprehensive diagnosis and appropriate patient selection, laser surgery may facilitate the restoration of functional tongue mobility, support the initiation or maintenance of breastfeeding, and contribute to the prevention of functional disturbances that could negatively influence normal orofacial development.
Learning objectives
- Explain the main oral soft-tissue restrictions that may affect breastfeeding and orofacial function in newborns and infants.
- Discuss the clinical criteria for diagnosis and appropriate patient selection for laser-assisted soft-tissue surgery.
- Describe the clinical principles and protocols involved in laser treatment of oral soft tissues in very young patients.
- Demonstrate appropriate clinical considerations for infant positioning, protection, anesthesia, and postoperative care.
- Evaluate the clinical outcomes, advantages, and limitations of laser-assisted treatment in newborns and infants.
