TONGUE TIES
What is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that restricts the tongue’s mobility due to a tight or short lingual frenulum – the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. As pediatric dentists, we can see tongue-tie impacting early feeding, speech development, and even oral hygiene. In infants, it can lead to painful or ineffective breastfeeding, while older children may struggle with certain speech sounds or cleaning food from their teeth. Left untreated, tongue-ties can also interfere with proper jaw and airway development. Diagnosis is straightforward and treatment can often provide immediate relief and long-term benefits.
When Tongue Ties Can Be Problems
Signs to Watch For in Infants
In babies, tongue-tie often presents during the early weeks of life, especially during feeding. Common signs include difficulty latching, clicking sounds while nursing, prolonged feeding sessions, or frustration at the breast. Parents may also notice that their baby is not gaining weight as expected or that nursing is painful for the mother. Visually, the tongue may appear heart-shaped or unable to extend past the lower gums.
Signs to Watch For in Children
As children grow, untreated tongue-tie can lead to a range of functional issues. These may include speech delays or difficulty pronouncing sounds like “t,” “d,” “s,” “l,” and “th.” Children might avoid certain foods, eat slowly, or complain of tongue fatigue while speaking. A dental assessment can help determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Laser Release For Tongue Ties
Laser frenectomy is a modern, minimally invasive technique we often recommend when tongue-tie is causing functional issues. Using a gentle dental laser, we can precisely release the tight tissue with minimal discomfort, bleeding, or swelling. Compared to traditional surgical methods, laser treatment is faster, requires no sutures, and promotes quicker healing. For many families, laser release offers a safe, efficient, and life-changing solution.
