Are you familiar with the term tongue-tie? For many new parents, discovering that their infant has a tongue-tie can be concerning. At Lakeview Family Dentistry Hugo, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive information and top-tier treatment for tongue-tie right here in Hugo, MN.

What is Tongue-Tie?

Tongue-tie, medically termed ankyloglossia, is a congenital condition where a strip of skin, known as the lingual frenulum, attaches the baby’s tongue to the floor of their mouth more than usual. In many babies, this strip naturally separates before birth, granting them a full range of tongue motion. Yet, in tongue-tie cases, this doesn’t happen, limiting tongue mobility.

While often detected early, if left unaddressed, tongue-tie can lead to challenges such as malnourishment, speech hindrances, and oral hygiene issues. Key indicators of this condition encompass:

Struggles with breastfeeding due to restricted tongue movement.
Challenges in lifting the tongue or moving it side-to-side.
An inability to protrude the tongue out fully.
A heart or notched shape when attempting to stick the tongue out.

How is Tongue-Tie Treated at Lakeview Family Dentistry?

Treating tongue-tie mainly depends on the age of the patient. For infants, we typically recommend a quick and efficient procedure named frenotomy. Here, after inspecting the lingual frenulum, our seasoned dentists use a laser to release the frenulum. Given the minimal nerve endings and blood vessels in this region, the procedure is often painless, needing just a topical anesthetic and usually no stitches when done on infants.

For older children and adults, the frenotomy technique remains similar but might be performed with local anesthesia and potential stitches. Some patients also benefit from supplementary myofunctional therapy, speech therapy, or other adjunctive therapies to improve the outcome of the procedure.

At Lakeview Family Dentistry Hugo, we prioritize your family’s dental health. If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or if you’re seeking more information, don’t hesitate to visit our Hugo, MN practice. We’re here to guide, support, and ensure a radiant smile for every member of your family.