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Tongue ties are addressed with a frenectomy, which can help with difficulties feeding, speech, or keeping the mouth clean.
\n","heading":"Tongue Ties
\n","link":{"target":"","title":"Make an Appointment","url":"/schedule-online/"}},"serviceContent":"Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue tie, occurs when an unusually short, thick, or tight lingual frenulum restricts a newborn’s tongue movement. While some children experience no symptoms, others may struggle with nursing, speech development, or dental hygiene. Identifying these functional limitations early allows families to select appropriate treatment options that foster optimal feeding, clear communication, and oral health.
\n\nClinicians evaluate tongue tie through a physical exam, a review of medical history, and a functional movement assessment. They examine the frenulum’s length, thickness, and attachment site while measuring the tongue’s ability to lift, extend, and move side-to-side. Diagnostic focus varies by age: clinicians will look for latching difficulties by observing latch stability and milk transfer during infant feedings, whereas in older children, they assess speech articulation, chewing ability, and dental hygiene.
\nIf a tongue tie causes ongoing functional issues, surgical intervention may be recommended. Providers typically perform a frenectomy or frenotomy, also known as a tongue tie release of the tissue band. This allows a resolution of the issue in infants with minimal discomfort. At select locations, this is performed using LightScalpel® CO2 Laser technology.
\nChoosing the appropriate approach depends on the child’s age, anatomy, severity of symptoms, and clinical guidance. For many patients, this intervention successfully restores tongue mobility and function.
\nSymptoms of a tongue tie (ankyloglossia) depend heavily on the person’s age. While some people experience no noticeable issues, restricted tongue mobility can cause functional challenges at different stages of life.
\nIn babies, tongue tie primary manifests as feeding challenges due to an inability to maintain suction or elevate the tongue.
\nAs kids grow, tongue restrictions affect speech articulation, solid food intake, and dental development.
\nIn adults who adapt to or compensate for a tongue tie over time, symptoms often present as muscle strain, sleep disruption, or dental issues.
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