Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)

Tongue tie can potentially recur after treatment, although this is relatively uncommon. Reattachment of the frenulum can occur if the wound heals in a way that causes the tissue to re-tether, limiting tongue movement once again. Laser dentistry can help reduce the likelihood of reattachment by creating a cleaner incision with minimal bleeding, which promotes better healing. Following post-procedure care instructions, such as performing recommended tongue exercises or stretches, is also crucial in preventing the frenulum from reattaching to the floor of the mouth. If reattachment does occur, a repeat procedure may be necessary. Parents should monitor their child’s tongue movement and consult with their healthcare provider if they notice any signs of restricted movement or if symptoms reappear after treatment.

Tongue tie in older children is typically treated with a procedure similar to that used in infants, known as a frenotomy or frenuloplasty. In a frenotomy, the lingual frenulum is cut to release the tongue, allowing greater mobility. Frenuloplasty is a more complex procedure that may be used if the tongue tie is severe or if additional correction is needed. This procedure involves cutting the frenulum and suturing the area to prevent reattachment. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the child, and whether the tongue tie is affecting their speech, eating, or oral hygiene. In some cases, speech therapy may be recommended in conjunction with surgical treatment to address any speech issues that have arisen due to the tongue tie.

Tongue tie can affect speech development, particularly if it is not treated early. The restricted movement of the tongue can make it difficult for a child to articulate certain sounds that require the tongue to reach the roof of the mouth or move freely within the oral cavity. Sounds like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r” may be particularly challenging for children with tongue tie. As a result, they may develop speech that is unclear or difficult to understand. Early treatment of tongue tie, such as a frenotomy, can help prevent these speech difficulties by allowing the tongue to move more freely. However, if the condition is not addressed until later in childhood, speech therapy may be needed to correct any speech issues that have developed.

Recovery from a frenectomy in infants is generally quick, with most babies experiencing minimal discomfort. The procedure is brief, and many infants can resume breastfeeding immediately afterward. Some babies may be fussy or experience mild discomfort for a few hours after the procedure, but this typically resolves quickly. It is typical for a small amount of bleeding to occur, but this usually stops on its own. The area under the tongue may develop a small white or yellowish patch as it heals, which is normal and should not be a cause for concern. Parents are usually advised to perform gentle stretching exercises with the baby’s tongue to prevent frenulum reattachment during healing. Most babies fully recover within a few days, and breastfeeding often improves shortly after the procedure.

Frenectomy is considered a safe procedure for treating tongue tie in infants. It is a minimally invasive surgery with little risk and typically quick recovery time. Complications are rare, but they can include bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding tissues, although these are uncommon when an experienced healthcare provider performs the procedure. The benefits of frenectomy, particularly in improving breastfeeding and preventing potential speech or dental issues, generally outweigh the risks. Most babies tolerate the procedure well, and any discomfort is usually brief. Parents should follow the post-procedure care instructions the healthcare provider provides to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

An infant frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed to treat tongue tie (ankyloglossia) in infants. During the procedure, a healthcare provider snips or cuts the lingual frenulum, which is the tissue connecting the tongue’s underside to the mouth’s floor. This quick and straightforward procedure releases the tongue, allowing for improved movement and function. The procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office and takes only a few minutes. It usually requires no anesthesia, although a local anesthetic or numbing cream may be applied to reduce discomfort. The baby can often breastfeed immediately after the procedure, and many mothers report an immediate improvement in the baby’s latch and feeding effectiveness.