Tongue-Tie

Tongue-tie (ankloglossia) can be an inherited condition. The condition is one in which the tongue is actually “tied,” or tethered to the mouth floor. Tongue-tie patients can inhibit both speech and eating.

 The degree of impact varies from individual to individual. Some people with tongue-tie may go into adulthood without feeling the need to address the situation. Some adults don’t even realize that they have it.

The importance of the tongue 

We don’t always consider how important the tongue is to our speech and swallowing. When your tongue has a restricted range of motion, activities like these can be impaired. The severity of tongue-tie is not the same for everyone, so it may or may not be detected early in life. It is commonly diagnosed when parents discover that their child has difficulty breastfeeding, or eating and speaking.

 Tongue-tie is three times more prevalent among boys than in girls. It runs frequently in families. Quite a few infants who have difficulty breast-feeding have tongue-tie. When the condition is corrected, they may be able to eliminate this difficulty.

What are the symptoms of tongue-tie?

• A newborn may have problems sucking from the breast.
• Significant pain while the mother is nursing.
• A baby who fusses constantly at the breast.
• Inadequate weight gain.
• A heart-shaped or v-shaped notch.
• Choking or gagging on food.
• Chronic dribbling.

As an adult, how can I tell if I have tongue-tie?

As mentioned earlier, the severity of tongue-tie symptoms vary from individual to individual. You can try the following to determine if you may have the condition: While standing, arch your back and bring your chin up as high as you possibly can without jaw movement. If you can swallow, it is likely that you do not have tongue-tie. Trouble swallowing? Seek a consultation today.

What treatments are available?

CO2 laser treatment is often recommended for infants, children, teens, and adults. This is the most advanced way to treat tongue-tie. It is the least invasive with no downtime. For this reason, most patients choose laser treatment.

CO2 Laser Frenectomy 

A laser frenectomy procedure is often advised because no incisions are involved. Also, improved outcomes and a shorter recovery is likely. The procedure only takes a few minutes to complete. It does not require any sedation or general anesthesia.

In addition, a laser frenectomy is less painful. Reattachment can occur. However, this procedure decreases that chance with simple exercises. Moreover, these exercises are specific to the patient and their unique needs.

Learn More

Protect your oral health. Learn more about tongue-tie and CO2 laser treatment. Lexington Smile Studio happily accepts new patients. Contact us today. Our office also offers cosmetic dentistry and prosthodontics. This includes dental implants, veneers, and teeth whitening. Inquire today. Your smile deserves it.