Let's briefly cover some basic tongue anatomy so you can better understand this condition.
Tongue-tie happens when your newborn's frenulum is abnormal and restricts the movement of their tongue. If it's in the front two-thirds of the tongue, it's anterior tongue-tie. If the condition is in the back third, it's posterior tongue-tie.
According to the Mayo Clinic, tongue-tie can affect anyone but is more common in boys than in girls, and it can also run in the family.
Anterior tongue-ties are easier to diagnose because the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of your child's mouth would be visible. Posterior tongue-ties, however, aren't as noticeable and can be tricky to detect in a newborn. Some signs your infant may have this condition include:
If you think your newborn may have tongue-tie, speak with your healthcare professional. Difficulty breastfeeding can prevent your child from getting the important nutrients they need. Without treatment, a tongue-tie can cause problems later in life, too. Having limited tongue movement can make speech more challenging. A tongue-tie can also increase a person's risk of tooth decay and other oral hygiene issues.
The treatment your healthcare professional will recommend depends on the severity of your child's condition. It's possible for some cases of posterior tongue-tie to eventually loosen up and relax on their own. According to John Hopkin's Medicine, if breastfeeding is the only concern, your doctor may recommend the aid of a lactation consultant or infant feeding expert to see if the situation can be resolved without your child needing surgery.
But some doctors prefer to prevent any possible eating or speech issues that may develop in the future by performing surgery right away. The two most common procedures for tongue-ties are:
These are relatively simple procedures, and, in general, they're safe, too. But like any surgery, there are potential risks that are important lookout for, like:
If you notice any symptoms or side effects that concern you after your child's procedure, contact your healthcare professional right away.
It can be scary to hear that your newborn has a condition that can affect their ability to feed, speak, and breathe properly. The good news about tongue-tie is that it's common, and in most cases, it's treatable. And now that you know more about this condition, you'll be better able to have an informed discussion with your pediatrician to ensure your little one grows up happy, healthy, and with a tongue that moves freely.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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