Tongue Tie Surgery and Treatment Specialists
Are you or is your newborn baby suffering from a tongue tie? If so, our highly trained Baton Rouge dental professionals can help quickly relieve your tongue tie condition. We specialize in baby tongue tie surgery and also in treating adults who are suffering from a tongue tie.
What is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tongue’s movement is restricted due to a short or thick band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This tissue is called the lingual frenulum, and when it is too short or tight, it can limit the range of motion of the tongue.
Tongue-tie can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or it can develop later in life due to injury or trauma to the lingual frenulum. It is estimated that up to 10% of newborns have tongue-tie, although not all cases require treatment.
Tongue-tie can cause various issues, such as difficulty with breastfeeding, speech difficulties, and dental problems. In some cases, it may also lead to discomfort or pain in the mouth and difficulty eating certain foods. Treatment options include a simple surgical procedure to clip the frenulum, called a frenectomy, and speech therapy to improve tongue movement and function.
Is a Tongue Tie Dangerous?
Tongue-tie itself is not usually considered dangerous, but it can cause a range of problems that may affect an individual’s health and quality of life. The severity of the condition can vary widely, and some people may experience more significant symptoms than others.
In infants, tongue-tie can cause difficulty with breastfeeding, which can lead to poor weight gain and dehydration. In some cases, the mother may experience pain or discomfort during breastfeeding. This can be concerning for the baby’s health and development, as breastfeeding is an essential source of nutrition and plays a crucial role in the mother-child bonding process.
In children and adults, tongue-tie can cause speech difficulties, dental problems, and difficulty eating certain foods. These problems can impact an individual’s social, emotional, and physical well-being, and may require treatment to improve.
In rare cases, tongue-tie may lead to more severe complications, such as infections or bleeding. However, these complications are uncommon and can typically be prevented with appropriate treatment.
Overall, while tongue-tie may not be considered dangerous, it can cause significant problems that may require treatment to improve an individual’s quality of life. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of tongue tie, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate course of action.
How is a Tongue Tie Treated?
The treatment of tongue tie depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms it is causing. In some cases, no treatment may be required, as mild tongue-tie may not cause any significant problems. However, if the condition is causing difficulties with feeding, speech, or other activities, treatment may be necessary.
The most common treatment for tongue-tie is a surgical procedure called a frenectomy, which involves cutting or releasing the frenulum to improve the range of motion of the tongue. The procedure can be done with a scalpel, scissors, or a laser, and is typically performed under local anesthesia in a dentist or doctor’s office. The procedure is relatively quick and has a low risk of complications.
In addition to a frenectomy, other treatments may be recommended to address specific symptoms or complications associated with tongue-tie. For example, speech therapy may be recommended to help improve speech and language development, while dental procedures may be required to correct any dental problems caused by tongue-tie.
Overall, the goal of treatment is to improve the function of the tongue and address any symptoms or complications associated with tongue-tie, allowing the individual to lead a healthy, normal life.
Please call or contact Juban Cowen Dental today to schedule your tongue tie treatment.