TONGUE-TIE
Tongue-tie is a condition that occurs in newborns when the strip of skin connecting the tongue to the floor of their mouth is shorter than usual. Typically, this separation occurs before birth, enabling unrestricted movement of the tongue. However, in cases of tongue-tie, this strip of skin remains attached to the underside of the tongue.
The positive news is that tongue-tie is a common condition that can be readily treated, averting any adverse impact on a child's development. However, if left unaddressed, it can result in issues such as feeding difficulties, speech impediments, or challenges in maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Some signs of tongue-tie include:
- Challenges in breastfeeding due to limited tongue mobility.
- Inability to elevate or move the tongue horizontally.
- Difficulty in protruding the tongue.
- Tongue appears notched or heart-shaped when extended.
TONGUE-TIE TREATMENT
The surgical procedure utilized to address tongue-tie in infants is called a frenotomy. It's a straightforward intervention where the physician examines the lingual frenulum and then cuts it using either sterile scissors or a laser. Typically, stitches are unnecessary as the lingual frenulum contains few nerve endings or blood vessels. The procedure is performed under a local anesthetic.
For older children and adults with tongue-tie, the frenotomy procedure resembles that performed on infants. However, it often requires general anesthesia and might involve the use of stitches. Additionally, speech therapy may be advised in certain cases.