A Parent’s Guide To Tongue-Tie

Tongues are funny little things when you think about it. And from taste buds to licking envelopes, they are pretty useful. Sometimes babies can be born with a condition called Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie. This can limit the function of your baby’s tongue. This guide will help you understand more about the condition, what causes it and how it can be treated. 

What Is Tongue Tie? 

Tongue tie is diagnosed when your baby’s tongue is connected to the bottom of the mouth via a fold of tissue called the lingual frenulum. This fold of tissue is actually present in all children however when it’s too tight or short it can restrict the movement of a baby’s tongue. Typically this is picked up immediately at birth, your health practitioner will inform you before you leave the hospital. However, this is not always the case. The most common symptoms of tongue-tie are trouble breastfeeding which can lead to difficulty gaining weight and discomfort. If you are concerned about a missed diagnosis, a paediatrician can put your mind at rest by taking a closer look at your baby’s tongue. 

What Causes Tongue Tie?

Tongue-tie can affect around 4-10% of newborns. There is no specific cause as such, however it is suggested the condition can be genetic. Tongue tie develops as the baby grows where that tissue (the lingual frenulum) gradually recedes. When they are born this results in the restricted movement diagnosed as tongue tie. It is not linked to anything you did or didn’t do during pregnancy. To be honest, doctors have no clear reason for the cause, the good news is that it can be easily treated. 

How Can You Treat Tongue Tie? 

Not all babies or children will need treatment for tongue tie. In many cases the lingual frenulum will stretch as they grow, resulting in full, healthy movement. If treatment is needed, the following simple, quick and effective surgeries can resolve tongue tie. 

Frenotomy (Pronounced freh-not-uh-mee)

We know, we know – it’s a tricky one to get your tongue around. This procedure is not as complicated as it sounds. A doctor makes a small incision in the frenulum to lengthen the tissue. If the baby can stay still there is no need for anaesthetic and there is minimal pain. This can be over very quickly and performed at a local doctors or dental surgery with a regulated practitioner.  

Frenuloplasty (Pronounced fren- yuh-lo-plasty) 

If the frenulum is too thick for a frenotomy, a frenuloplasty may be required. This divides and lengthens the frenulum, freeing the tongue. For this surgery kids are put under anesthetic so they feel no pain and it is over as quickly as possible. 

What Are The After Care Steps For Tongue Tie? 

Taking care of little tongues after a tongue care procedure is very simple. Babies often recover very quickly and are ready for a feed shortly after treatment. However, in some cases soreness may linger a little longer. Little ones may need some time to adjust after surgery. If you experience any feeding problems, a feeding expert can help give you support and get their nutrition back on track. In rare cases tongue tie can come back after treatment. If this happens, a doctor can advise on the best treatment based on your child’s specific symptoms. 

What Can You Do If You Think Your Baby Has A Tongue Tie? 

To assess whether your little one has a tongue tie, book an appointment with a regulated practitioner. You can book a consultation with the specialist team at Love Teeth who have a child-friendly clinic for tongue-tie. During a consultation your specialist will ask you questions about your baby’s feeding history and take a look at their tongue. If they make a diagnosis they can book you in for the appropriate surgery as soon as possible. 

Final Words For Parents

Finding out your little one has a tongue tie can be overwhelming, rest assured this can be resolved very quickly. The condition can be treated in a number of ways. Either it will resolve itself on its own as the tissue lengthens with growth. Otherwise, depending on the stage of tongue tie it can be resolved with one of two quick and effective surgeries. A frenotomy or frenuloplasty can be performed at your local doctor or specialist dentist clinic. For a frenuloplasty your child may be put under gentle anesthetic to minimise pain. Recovery is normally quick with babies returning to feeding shortly after the procedure. If you experience any feeding complications or a returning tongue tie, book an appointment with your doctor for tailored advice on your child’s needs. 

Ready To Speak To a Tongue Tie Specialist? Book a Consultation Now.