You’ve surely heard the term “tongue-tied” when someone is unable to speak due to shyness, embarrassment or surprise. But are you aware that tongue-tie is an actual birth condition? It affects almost five percent of babies. Luckily, though, this situation, which limits a tongue’s movement, can be remedied by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
At the office of Harmony Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we are experts in oral and maxillofacial surgery. We guide our patients through their diagnoses, treatments and aftercare with skill and compassion. We ensure that our patients feel at ease. When you visit us, you can be confident that you are receiving the finest and most advanced oral and maxillofacial attention.
What is tongue-tie?
The lingual frenulum is the web of tissue under the tongue that connects to the floor of the mouth. Tongue-tie occurs when a newborn’s frenulum is abnormal and restricts the movement of the tongue. Anterior tongue-tie is in the front two-thirds of the tongue, while posterior tongue-tie is in the back third. An anterior tongue-tie is easier to identify because the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is visible. A posterior tongue-tie isn’t as obvious and can be harder to see in a newborn.
Possible indications that your child has it
- The child can’t stick the tongue out past the teeth; when trying to, the tongue might look notched or shaped like a heart.
- Difficulty breastfeeding.
- The child doesn’t lift the tongue or move it from side to side.
- The child doesn’t lick the lips or use the tongue to brush food off the teeth.
Breastfeeding difficulties can prevent a child from ingesting important nutrients. Without treatment, limited tongue movement can also bring on problems as the child grows older, including speech challenges, an increased risk of tooth decay and other oral hygiene issues.
An oral surgeon can perform one of two relatively easy procedures to free a child’s tongue.
Harmony Dental Implants & Oral Surgery’s mission is to improve oral and maxillofacial conditions, whatever they may be. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide superior patient care. For more information about how we can help you, please call us today to arrange an appointment.