Tongue Tie – Causes, Treatment & More
Ankyloglossia – more commonly known as tongue tie – is a congenital condition that causes decreased movement of the tongue. Anywhere from 5-10% of the U.S. population is born with tongue tie. The condition can lead to many oral health problems, including:
- Restricted airway (breathing)
- Speech issues
- Breastfeeding pain for mothers
- Chewing and swallowing problems
Since the condition is so prevalent, you probably know someone – a family member, friend, colleague or acquaintance – that could benefit from tongue tie treatment for their child.
One of the most common questions from parents of children with this condition is: “Where can I find a tongue tie Pediatric Dentist near me?”
The Super Dentists, San Diego’s leading pediatric dentistry, can help. We’ll explain what causes tongue tie, tongue tie symptoms, and some non-surgical treatments for tongue tie to ensure that congenital ankyloglossia isn’t a life-altering condition for your child.
What is a Tongue Tie?
What is tongue tie? A small piece of tissue under the tongue – called the lingual frenulum – typically separates after birth.
This gives the tongue total flexibility. Tongue tie is caused when the lingual frenulum stays attached. Tongue tie constricts tongue mobility and is responsible for different oral health problems.
Tongue tie causes are purely congenital. The condition isn’t caused by accident or trauma – it’s a birth-related issue and surprisingly easy to treat.
Speech problems are one of the leading symptoms of tongue tie. Children are often misdiagnosed with other conditions when a simple tongue tie treatment will take care of everything!
Lip and tongue tie can also make breastfeeding more challenging. When the bottom of the tongue has a short range, it can make it difficult for a baby to latch onto the breast properly. The limited mobility of the tongue can prevent the baby from creating a proper seal around the nipple and areola, leading to an inefficient or shallow latch.
Tongue tie surgery is relatively simple. Dentists and oral surgeons simply snip the lingual frenulum or band of tissue attaching the tongue to the floor to allow the tongue to move freely.
The procedure is completed with sterile scissors or a laser. Since the tissue has minimal nerve endings and blood flow, pain is minimal – and the results of a tongue tie procedure are evident immediately.
Not Sure How to Treat a Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)? – The Super Dentists Can Help!
For tongue tie treatment and other pediatric dental care, remember the three key ages:
Baby and Child Tongue Tie Ages
- Age 1 – your child should visit a pediatric dentist no later than one year old.
- Age 4 – take care of dental issues such as tongue tie or problems caused by bad habits (thumb sucking, pacifier use, etc.) by age 4.
- Age 7 – an orthodontist visit is recommended by age 7. Since bad habits and other issues such as cavities and tongue ties are already remedied, an orthodontist will check on proper teeth alignment and other related oral health problems.
Oral health is linked to overall well-being. Over 50 million hours of school are missed annually due to oral health issues. Tongue ties, toothaches, and other issues affect everything from social skills to academic performance. And since poor dental health can cause sleeping problems, the domino effect of oral health is hard to overstate.
From tongue tie to a host of other oral health specialties, The Super Dentists offer superior pediatric dentistry and orthodontist services –visit us today!
What to Look For in a Tongue Tie Dentist:
For baby tongue tie treatment and other pediatric dental services, The Super Dentists are here to serve you and your family. With a comprehensive and affordable selection of oral healthcare options, we’re proud to be your family dentist and orthodontist.
Stop by any of our six San Diego County locations today, or call 1 (855) GO SUPER for more information. Thanks for visiting The Super Dentists!
Have Questions? Contact us!
Call Us 1 (855) GO SUPER or Text 1 (844) 765-1234
If you’re ready to get started, book an appointment today!
