Evaluation of the Strength Parameters of Tongue Muscles in Patients With Ankyloglossia

Abstract

Thefunctional model ofthe neuromuscular apparatus ofthe tongue, its power characteristics, and also the parameters ofendurance play an important role in the formation of the majority ofmalocclusion disorders. The aim of the study was to compare the strength parameters of tongue muscles in patients with ankyloglossia before active complex therapy and at the first stage of treatment. The study program involved a group ofpatients with ankyloglossia, which included 39 children from 7.5 to 9.3 years. The control group included 20 people of similar age. The strength parameters of the tongue were measured through the IOPI Medical system. It was established that in patients with ankyloglossia of the 1 st and 2 nd degree, the decrease in the force parameters of the muscles of the tongue responsible for vertical excursions is determined. The strength activity of the muscles - protractors of the tongue in the individuals with ankyloglossya before treatment were significantly higher in comparison with the similar parameters of the control group. Frenulotomy, combined with subsequent orthodontic therapy and miogymnastics leads to an increase in the strength activity of tongue muscles that determine vertical excursions and reach control values within 1-2 months. It is determined that the use of the game model, which increases the motivation ofpatients for complex therapy, enhances the endurance of the neuromuscular apparatus of the tongue, as well as intensifies the normalization of the functional activity of the tongue muscles.