An apparatus suitable for partially or completely severing the lingual frenulum of a patient comprises an operating platform and an incision device that includes an instrument capable of tissue dissection 11, wherein, in use, the operating platform supports the incision device for movement relative to the operating platform. The operating platform may be semi-lunar in shape 4. The operating platform preferably has an attachment point 3 for receiving the incision assembly. The incision device preferably comprises a handle (5, figure 5) attached to an upper section (6) supporting a component limited to linear movement (9) and incorporating an area capable of tissue dissection. The area capable of tissue dissection may have projections (12) extending outwards at least as far as a dissection surface in one plane for protecting tissues adjacent to the lingual frenulum.
