Depending on its severity, tongue-tie may be corrected with a simple surgical procedure for infants and older children at Spokane Valley ENT.
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a congenital condition that affects about 4 to 10 percent of newborns. It occurs when the lingual frenulum, a small band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is unusually short, thick, or tight. This abnormality can cause the tongue to be tethered to the bottom of the mouth, limiting its range of motion.
Breastfeeding
For babies, restricted tongue movement can interfere with essential functions. One of the earliest signs is difficulty with breastfeeding. The limited tongue mobility prevents the baby from properly latching onto the breast. Which leads to inefficient feeding, poor weight gain, and discomfort for the mother.
Speech Development
As the child grows, the condition may also affect speech development. Tongue-tie can limit the ability to pronounce certain sounds. Especially words requiring the tongue to touch the roof of the mouth or upper teeth, like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r.” In severe cases, it can lead to speech delays or articulation problems.
Other Issues from Tongue-tie
Tongue-tie can cause other issues beyond speech and feeding. It may affect oral hygiene, as restricted tongue movement can make it difficult to sweep food debris away from teeth. Consequently leading to an increased risk of tooth decay. Additionally, in older children or adults, tongue-tie can cause problems with activities like licking lips, playing wind instruments, or even kissing.
Treatments
Fortunately, treatment is typically straightforward. Spokane Valley ENT offers diagnosis and treatment for infants and older children with tongue-tie. Depending on its severity, it can be corrected with a simple surgical procedure called a frenulectomy, in which the restrictive strip of tissue under the tongue is removed, allowing for improved tongue mobility. This quick and minimally invasive treatment can alleviate feeding issues in infants and prevent future complications with speech and oral health.