All About Tongue Ties
Tongue-tie doesn’t only apply when you’re unable to say anything. It’s also a medical condition that’s present at birth.
What is a Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie refers to a condition when the frenulum, which attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is too short or thick and causes speech and eating difficulties.
Symptoms of Tongue-Tie in Children
Some babies may not be bothered by a tongue-tie, but some may have problems.
It isn’t always easy to spot the issue during a newborn’s physical examination. If you feel your baby may have a tongue-tie, see your doctor or family dentist in Peace River, Alberta, immediately for a proper diagnosis.
Here are some signs to watch for:
- Speech problems
- Breastfeeding issues
- Difficulties with tongue movement, licking food, or playing musical wind instruments
- Having gapped front teeth
- Poor weight gain
Having a tongue-tie doesn’t mean a child won’t be able to speak or use their mouth. They’ll still be able to do so, but they’re likely to have problems pronouncing certain sounds.
Some children with tongue-tie may also have a cleft palate or lip that can contribute to their symptoms.
Risks of Getting Tongue-Tie: Who’s Likely to Have It?
Around 22 out of 1,000 live births in Canadian hospitals are diagnosed with tongue-tie. But this is likely underestimated as some cases are diagnosed in other health care settings. Source
Tongue-tie can affect anyone, but the risk is higher if someone in your family has it. It’s also more common in boys.
Tongue-tie occurs due to irregular mouth formation. The tongue and the floor of the mouth start as connected during embryo development. Eventually, they separate with only a thin tissue (the frenulum) connecting them.
The frenulum shrinks over time, but not for infants with a tongue-tie.
Importance of Early Tongue-Tie Diagnosis
According to the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), tongue-tie can cause mothers to stop breastfeeding early.
A child’s tongue movement becomes restricted if their frenulum is abnormally short. This can make it hard for them to latch during breastfeeding and reduce their milk intake. Prolonged feeding due to improper latching can also cause nipple pain and bleeding in nursing mothers.
Untreated tongue-tie can lead to long-term issues such as malnourishment and make oral hygiene more difficult.
Doctors can diagnose tongue-ties through a physical exam and health history review. They inspect your child’s tongue movements and look into breastfeeding-related problems. Your family dentist can also help identify a tongue-tie issue.
Can a Tongue-Tie be Prevented?
Tongue-ties cannot be avoided, but early diagnosis and treatment can help a child have better life quality.
Not all children with tongue ties require treatment. Some may need minor surgery to cut the frenulum and increase tongue motion. This procedure is simple and doesn’t require the use of sedation. Your healthcare provider can determine which treatments are necessary for your child.
When to See Your Doctor or Dentist in Peace River, Alberta, for Tongue-Tie
Consider booking an examination with your healthcare provider immediately if you feel your child isn’t meeting weight milestones and is having issues making certain sounds.
Tongue-tie procedures are safe. Your dentist can determine whether your child needs it. They can also perform it or refer you to a specialist when necessary.
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