What Is a Tongue-Tie, and When Should It Be Treated?

What Is a Tongue-Tie, and When Should It Be Treated?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where the tissue (lingual frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually short, tight, or thick. This restricts the tongue’s movement, which can affect essential activities like breastfeeding, eating, speaking, or even oral hygiene.

Symptoms of Tongue-Tie
• Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
• Poor weight gain in infants
• Trouble sticking out the tongue past the lower teeth
• Speech challenges, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
• Problems with swallowing or chewing
• A gap between the front lower teeth (in some cases)

When Should Tongue-Tie Be Treated?

The decision to treat tongue-tie depends on its severity and the challenges it causes. Mild cases may not require intervention, but if it interferes with feeding, speech development, or oral health, treatment might be necessary.

Treatment often involves a simple procedure called a frenotomy, which releases the tight tissue. This quick, minimally invasive treatment is typically performed in infancy but can be done later if necessary. For more complex cases, a frenuloplasty may be recommended.

Early Diagnosis Is Key

Recognizing tongue-tie early ensures proper growth and development for children. If you suspect your child may have tongue-tie, consult your pediatric dentist or healthcare provider for an evaluation.

At NexGen Dentistry in National City, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions about tongue-tie or its treatment, call us at 619-552-3200 to schedule a consultation.