Tongue-Tie Explained
Medically known as “ankyloglossia”, tongue-tie is a condition that restricts the movement of the tongue in the mouth and occurs when the tissue under the tongue (frenulum) is shorter or tighter than usual. The exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, but it is possibly congenital and occurs during the development of the fetus. Changes in the development of the fetus during pregnancy or environmental factors surrounding the mother may also have a contributory effect. Additionally, tongue-tie has been found to run in families, which suggests the possibility of a contributing genetic factor.
Now, although there is evidence in archaic Egyptian texts suggesting that the condition may have been known at that time, and Hippocrates (c. 460-370 BCE) discussed conditions of the mouth and tongue, it wasn’t until the 19th century that this condition was connected to non-optimum breastfeeding, oral hygiene, and development of the child’s speech and was subsequently studied and formally classified by the medical community. Early procedures around this time included a surgical procedure (lingual frenectomy) where the tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth was surgically treated.
The mid-20th century presented a higher interest in the effects of Tongue-Tie on the oral health of the child and breastfeeding, as well as potential emotional effects on mothers, which can be difficult to measure.
It became clear that treatment was not only possible, but finding the best ways to treat it became the goal. Today we have a great treatment for the condition, and I’d like to tell you about that now.
Tongue-Tie Treatment at Orem Pediatric Dentistry
When you schedule a procedure, we use a WaterLase laser to gently cut back the lingual frenulum, or the membrane that tethers the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. This increases the mobility of the tongue and can handle infant feeding issues. The procedure is brief, and we take time to ensure that all patients and parents are well aware of exactly what takes place before, during, and after the procedure.
Once completed, we may recommend that your child be seen by other medical professionals, including speech therapists or other consultants if necessary.
Why Treatment of Children’s Tongue-Tie Should Be Considered
As you know, when left untreated, infants with tongue-tie tend to struggle with breastfeeding or bottle feeding. This can lead to lack of weight gain or poor weight gain, and the mother can also be emotionally challenged. Limitation of tongue movement can result in the inability to voice certain sounds and can result in delays of vocal speech learning. If the condition hinders proper oral hygiene, the result can be gum disease and cavities.
So, it’s clear why I would recommend that you schedule a consultation with us if your child has Tongue-Tie. We can carefully examine the condition and advise you on some options that you have to treat it.
It’s important to note that after treatment, our patients often express an improved quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue-Tie Treatment
How is tongue-tie recognized?
Typically, the condition is recognized through an examination by a healthcare professional. The thickness and length of the tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth (frenulum) is observed, and an evaluation is made regarding adverse effects on the function and movement of the tongue.
What are the symptoms of tongue-tie?
In infants, it can lead to difficulties in feeding, such as poor weight gain, trouble and frustration with breastfeeding (for both the mother and the baby), and difficulties with oral hygiene and bottle-feeding. Speech difficulties in infants and toddlers have also been traced to the condition.
When should tongue-tie be treated?
Generally, treatment is suggested when the condition is having an adverse effect on dental health, feeding, or speech development.
What are the different treatment options?
As noted earlier, if a surgical treatment is indicated, the primary treatment is a procedure called a frenectomy. The tongue is freed by cutting the frenulum. The procedure can be done in a dental setting. Some cases may only require speech therapy or another supportive measure.
Is the surgical procedure painful?
The majority of patients experience only slight discomfort during and subsequent to the procedure. A local anesthesia is employed, and recovery is usually rapid.
Are there any risks to the surgical procedure?
Complications from the procedure are rare but can include infection or damage to surrounding tissue.
What should I expect after the surgical treatment is completed?
Movement of the tongue improves almost immediately. In older children, we may suggest exercises to encourage use of the now more mobile tongue.
How Does Dr. Howell Treats Tongue-Tie?
For the surgical correction process, I use an exclusive Biolase Waterlase laser device that uses a proprietary technique and bandage that prevents a potential reattachment of the tissue while ensuring the tissue does not tear. This allows us to precisely treat the condition. As a result, healing times as well as the risk of infection are reduced.
At Orem Pediatric Dentistry, we have performed over 5,000 Tongue-Tie procedures, all with excellent healing. To learn more, get your questions answered, and find out how we might be able to help, schedule your consultation with us today!
