Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a common condition that affects a child’s tongue movement. Although some children experience few issues with tongue-tie, others may encounter challenges with feeding, speech, and oral hygiene. Understanding tongue-tie can help parents recognize the symptoms early and seek treatment if necessary. At Wake Forest Pediatrics, we’re here to support you with all aspects of your child’s health and development.
What is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie occurs when the frenulum—a thin band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is unusually tight, short, or thick. This can limit tongue movement, affecting the way a child eats, speaks, and swallows. While tongue-tie varies in severity, early detection can help prevent complications as a child grows.
Symptoms of Tongue-Tie in Children
Symptoms of tongue-tie can vary based on a child’s age. Here’s what to look out for:
In Infants:
- Difficulty breastfeeding, including trouble latching or feeding for extended periods
- Poor weight gain due to feeding challenges
- Clicking sounds while breastfeeding, indicating issues with suction
- Milk leaking from the mouth while feeding
In Toddlers and Older Children:
- Speech difficulties, especially with sounds that require tongue movement, such as “t,” “d,” “z,” and “l”
- Inability to stick out the tongue past the lower teeth
- Difficulty licking or moving food around in the mouth, which can affect eating
- Challenges with oral hygiene, as limited tongue movement can make it harder to clean teeth effectively
What Causes Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie is generally considered a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. Researchers aren’t entirely certain what causes tongue-tie, but it may have a genetic component, as it tends to run in families. Some studies suggest that certain genes involved in tongue development could contribute to the formation of a shorter frenulum.
Diagnosing Tongue-Tie
At Wake Forest Pediatrics, we can diagnose tongue-tie through a physical examination. During this assessment, we observe how your child moves their tongue, as well as check the appearance and positioning of the frenulum. For some children, a diagnosis may be made in infancy if feeding issues are observed. For others, it may not become apparent until speech or other developmental concerns arise.
Treatment Options for Tongue-Tie
Whether treatment is necessary depends on the severity of the tongue-tie and its impact on daily functions like feeding and speech. Treatment options include:
- Observation and Monitoring – Mild cases of tongue-tie may not require treatment if the child is able to eat, speak, and perform oral hygiene effectively. In these cases, regular check-ups allow us to monitor any changes.
- Frenotomy (Simple Tongue-Tie Release) – This is a quick, minor procedure where a doctor snips the frenulum to free the tongue. It’s often performed on infants and can significantly improve breastfeeding and other functions. Frenotomy generally has minimal risks and requires little recovery time.
- Frenuloplasty – For older children with more complex cases, a frenuloplasty may be recommended. This is a surgical procedure performed under anesthesia, where the frenulum is released, and stitches may be placed to allow better tongue movement. Frenuloplasty may be followed by speech therapy or feeding exercises to ensure optimal function.
Is Tongue-Tie Surgery Necessary?
Not every child with tongue-tie will need surgery. If tongue-tie isn’t affecting daily activities or causing complications, many pediatricians may recommend monitoring without immediate intervention. However, if it interferes with breastfeeding, eating, or speech, treatment may be beneficial to avoid challenges as your child grows.
Supporting Your Child After Treatment
After a frenotomy or frenuloplasty, your pediatrician will provide care instructions to support your child’s recovery. For infants, feeding may improve immediately, and parents are often encouraged to feed right after the procedure to help soothe the child. Older children may receive tongue exercises to help restore strength and mobility.
When to Talk to a Pediatrician About Tongue-Tie
If you notice any feeding issues in your infant or if your toddler or older child has difficulty with speech or eating, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician. At Wake Forest Pediatrics, we’ll assess your child’s symptoms, answer any questions, and recommend the best course of action based on their unique needs.
Tongue-tie is a common condition that can affect feeding, speech, and oral health, but with the right care, children with tongue-tie can thrive. At Wake Forest Pediatrics, we’re here to help you navigate this condition and make informed decisions for your child’s health and well-being. If you have concerns or suspect your child may have tongue-tie, feel free to reach out to our team for support and guidance.
