Do you or your child experience difficulty with breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene? If so, it could be due to a condition known as tongue tie. A tongue tie can cause a range of problems for both children and adults, but effective treatments can improve oral function, speech, and overall quality of life.
Read more below to explore everything you need to know about tongue-tie.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
Ankyloglossia, often known as tongue tie, is an inborn disorder that limits the tongue’s range of motion. A narrow, substantial, or tight ring of tissue (lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth.
Tongue Tie Vs. Lip Tie
Tongue tie and lip tie are conditions caused by a tight or short frenulum, which can limit movement and cause various problems. A tongue tie occurs when the frenulum under the tongue is too tight or short, while a lip tie occurs when the frenulum connecting the upper lip to the gums is affected. Both conditions differ in their location and specific problems they can cause.
Complications and Problems
Here are some of the problems caused by a tongue tie and why seeking treatment is essential.
Difficulty With Breastfeeding
Infants with a tongue tie may have difficulty latching onto the nipple or bottle, leading to poor weight gain and malnourishment. This can result in frustrations for both the infant and the mother.
Speech Problems
As children with tongue ties grow and develop speech, they may experience difficulty with specific sounds and articulation. This is because the tongue cannot move freely and make the necessary movements for speech.
Oral Hygiene Issues
You may find it challenging to keep your mouth clean, which could lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Moreover, it can cause several orthodontic issues, such as overbite, which can be frustrating.
Orthodontic Issues
Some individuals with tongue ties may have orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, or overbites. In some cases, dental crowns may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to correct these issues and improve the overall function and appearance of the teeth; visit a website like https://hubbarddentalnc.com/dental-crowns/ for more details.
Difficulty With Eating and Digestion
In addition to breastfeeding difficulties, tongue ties can lead to eating and digestion problems in children and adults. If the tongue cannot move properly, it can be not easy to chew food and move it through the digestive system properly.
Treatment Options
It is essential to seek a qualified healthcare provider. A family dentist near you can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options for your condition. Various treatments are available for tongue ties, depending on the severity of the condition and individual needs. These include:
Frenotomy
Getting a frenotomy to treat tongue ties is a quick and easy procedure that involves clipping or lasering the tight band of tissue that restricts tongue movement. This treatment is generally done on infants and can even be carried out in a pediatrician’s office, making it quite convenient. The procedure cost can vary significantly depending on your healthcare provider and where you live, ranging from $400 to $1,500.
Myofunctional Therapy
A series of exercises are designed to strengthen the mouth’s muscles and improve oral function. Myofunctional therapy may be used with frenotomy or as a standalone treatment. The cost can range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the healthcare provider and length of treatment.
Laser Surgery
Another treatment option for tongue tie is tongue tie laser surgery, which uses a laser to cut the frenulum. Some healthcare providers prefer this method because it is less invasive and leads to less pain and bleeding than traditional frenotomy. However, it can also be more expensive.
Bodywork
This includes holistic techniques such as craniosacral therapy and chiropractic care, which aim to release tension in the muscles and tissues of the mouth and neck. The cost can range from $100 to $200 per session, depending on the healthcare provider and length of treatment.
These figures can go lower or higher, so it’s best to ask your doctor for a more accurate estimate to avoid financial surprises.
Key Takeaways
A tongue tie is a condition characterized by a tight or short lingual frenulum that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. It can cause various issues, such as difficulty with breastfeeding, speech problems, and oral hygiene issues in infants and adults. If you or your child suffer from this condition, find a reputable healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your needs. Treatment costs can vary significantly, so ask about estimated costs beforehand.
