Tongue Tie

Tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where the lingual frenulum, the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is abnormally short, thick, or tight. This restriction can limit the tongue's range of motion, impacting various functions such as speaking, swallowing, and breastfeeding. Symptoms of tongue-tie may include difficulty sticking out the tongue, challenges with breastfeeding or latching onto a bottle, speech difficulties, and oral hygiene issues. In severe cases, tongue tie can affect overall oral and facial development. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include frenotomy or frenuloplasty to improve tongue mobility and alleviate associated symptoms. Early identification and intervention are crucial for addressing tongue ties and preventing potential complications. 

Symptoms of Tongue Tie 

• Difficulty sticking out the tongue past the lips 

• Inability to lift the tongue to the roof of the mouth 

• Difficulty moving the tongue from side to side 

• Speech difficulties, such as lisping or difficulty articulating certain sounds 

• Difficulty breastfeeding or latching onto a bottle for infants 

• Oral hygiene issues, such as difficulty cleaning the teeth and gums 

• Persistent discomfort or pain in the tongue or mouth 

Treatment Options of Tongue Tie 

Frenotomy 

A simple and minimally invasive procedure where the dentist in Martinsburg, WV, uses sterile scissors or a laser to snip the tight or thickened lingual frenulum, allowing the tongue to move more freely. Frenotomy is often performed in infants and young children and can be done quickly and safely in a clinical setting. During a frenotomy, the dentist at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons uses sterile scissors or a laser to snip the lingual frenulum, freeing the tongue and enabling an improved range of motion. The procedure is typically performed in a clinical setting and can be completed quickly with minimal discomfort. 

Benefits 

• Quick and straightforward procedure 

• Minimal discomfort and downtime 

• Immediate improvement in tongue mobility 

• Effective for infants and young children with breastfeeding difficulties 

Frenuloplasty 

In cases where the lingual frenulum is thicker or more extensive, a more extensive surgical revision known as frenuloplasty may be recommended. This procedure involves an incision to release the tight or thickened tissue and may require stitches to close the wound. During a frenuloplasty, an incision is made to release the tight or thickened tissue of the lingual frenulum, allowing for greater tongue mobility. The procedure may require stitches to close the wound and is typically performed under local anesthesia in a clinical or hospital setting. 

Benefits 

• Effective for severe cases of tongue tie with significant restriction 

• Provides lasting improvement in tongue mobility 

• It can be performed in older children and adults with persistent symptoms 

Speech Therapy 

In some cases, particularly in older children and adults with mild tongue tie, speech therapy may be recommended to improve articulation and speech clarity. Speech therapists can work with individuals to strengthen the tongue and mouth muscles and develop strategies for improving communication skills. Speech therapists work with individuals to enhance tongue and mouth muscle strength, coordination, and control. Therapy sessions may include exercises and techniques to enhance speech clarity, articulation, and overall communication skills. 

Benefits 

• Non-invasive approach to addressing speech-related symptoms 

• Customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs and goals 

• It can be beneficial for older children and adults with mild to moderate tongue tie 

The Benefits of Tongue Tie 

Enhanced Oral Function 

• Treating tongue ties can restore proper tongue mobility, allowing individuals to move their tongues more freely and effectively perform essential oral functions such as eating, swallowing, and speaking. 

• Tongue tie in Frederick, MD, can affect the ability to chew food thoroughly and swallow properly. Individuals can experience improved chewing efficiency and swallowing coordination by releasing the tight or thickened lingual frenulum. 

• Tongue ties may make it difficult to clean teeth and gums effectively, increasing the risk of dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Addressing tongue ties can facilitate better oral hygiene practices, reducing the likelihood of oral health problems. 

Improved Speech Clarity 

• A tongue tie can interfere with proper tongue movement and positioning, leading to speech difficulties such as lisping, slurred speech, or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Treating tongue ties can improve articulation and speech clarity, allowing individuals to communicate more effectively. 

• Untreated tongue ties in children may contribute to speech delays or language development issues. Children can overcome speech-related challenges and achieve important developmental milestones by addressing tongue ties early through appropriate treatment. Contact us today! 

Facilitated Breastfeeding 

• Tongue ties can hinder breastfeeding by affecting the infant's ability to latch onto the breast effectively and adequately transfer milk. Treating tongue ties can facilitate a better latch, improving breastfeeding success and maternal-infant bonding. 

• Breastfeeding difficulties associated with tongue tie, such as nipple pain or inadequate milk supply, can contribute to maternal discomfort and frustration. Addressing tongue ties can alleviate breastfeeding challenges and enhance the overall breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. 

Enhanced Quality of Life 

• Tongue ties can cause physical discomfort and self-consciousness, particularly in social or professional settings. By treating tongue ties and improving oral function and speech clarity, individuals can experience increased comfort and confidence in their daily interactions and activities. 

• Untreated tongue ties may lead to complications such as dental issues, speech delays, or breastfeeding difficulties. By addressing tongue ties early, individuals can prevent potential complications and maintain optimal oral health and function over the long term. 

Tongue tie is a treatable condition, and early intervention can improve oral health and function. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of tongue tie, visit Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at 6550 Mercantile Drive E Suite 101, Frederick, MD 21703, 1144 Opal Court, Hagerstown, MD 21740, or 1007 Sushruta Dr, Martinsburg, WV 25401 for evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations. You can schedule an appointment online or call us at (301) 694-0870, (301) 733-2500 or (304) 263-0991.