Macroglossia: multifactorial etiology, multiple management

Macroglossia designates a condition where the tongue in rest position protruyes beyond the alveolar edge. The tongue is an important structure in vital functions as swallowing, phonation and breathing. It participates in the development processes and craniofacial growth. Macroglossia can cause dentomusculoskeletal deformities, create problems in the mastication, speech and handling of the airway and instability of orthodontic treatment or orthognathic surgery. The knowledge of signs and symptoms of macroglossia and their difference with the relative macroglossia or pseudomacroglosia will contribute to identify these patients who can be intervened on time with a surgical or not surgical procedure according to the case, with the purpose of improving their function, aesthetics and to assure the stability of the treatment