Do you or your child experience difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, or hygiene at the mouth? If so, it could be due to a condition known as tongue tie. The tongue tie can lead to a range of problems for both adults and children, but effective treatments can help improve oral function, speech, and general well-being.
Explore the following article to learn all you need to know about tongue-tie.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
Ankyloglossia, or tongue tie, is a genetic disorder restricting the tongue’s motion. A narrow, substantial, or rigid ring of tissue (lingual frenulum) connects the tongue’s tip to the bottom of your mouth.
Tongue Tie Vs. Lip Tie
Lip and tongue ties result from a tight or short frenulum, which may restrict movement and cause many problems. A tongue tie is a sign that the frenulum beneath the tongue isn’t long enough or tight enough, and a lip tie occurs when the frenulum linking the upper lip to the gums is damaged. Both of them differ in their area of impact and the kind of problems they can trigger.
Complications and Problems
Here are a few problems caused by a tongue tie and why getting treatment is crucial.
Difficulty With Breastfeeding
Infants tied with their tongues may find it difficult to latch onto the nipple or bottle, which can cause insufficient weight gain or malnutrition. This can cause frustration for both the infant and the mother.
Speech Problems
When children with tongue ties develop and learn speech, they may encounter difficulties with certain sounds and articulation. This is because the tongue can’t move freely and makes the required communication movements.
Oral Hygiene Issues
It can be challenging to maintain your mouth’s cleanliness, which could lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, it could cause numerous orthodontic problems, such as overbite, that can be difficult to resolve.
Orthodontic Issues
Certain tongue-tied people may have orthodontic problems, like gapping between teeth or overbites. In some instances, dental crowns could be employed as part of a comprehensive treatment program to fix the issues and improve the general appearance and function of the teeth; consult a specialist to find out more.
Difficulty With Eating and Digestion
As well as breastfeeding problems, the tongue tie can lead to eating and digestion issues in adults and children. If the tongue does not move properly, it can be difficult to chew food properly and move it through the digestive system correctly.
Treatment Options
Various options are available at a trusted vet like Hubbard Dental family dental care to treat tongue ties based on the severity of the problem and individual requirements. They include:
Frenotomy
A frenotomy procedure to treat tongue ties is a simple procedure that involves clipping or lasering the tight band of tissue that blocks tongue movement. The procedure is usually performed for infants and may be carried out in a pediatric surgeon’s office, making it a breeze. The cost for this procedure could vary significantly based on the healthcare provider and the location you reside, ranging from $400 to $1,500.
Laser Surgery
Another treatment option for tongue tie is laser surgery, which utilizes lasers to cut the frenulum. Certain healthcare professionals prefer this method because it’s less invasive and causes less pain and bleeding than traditional frenotomy. However, it could cost more; visit a website like https://hubbarddentalnc.com/tongue-tie-surgery/ for more details.
Myofunctional Therapy
A set of exercises is designed to strengthen the mouth’s muscles and improve oral function. Myofunctional therapy can be used with frenotomy or as a standalone treatment. The price ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the healthcare provider and length of treatment.
Bodywork
This can include holistic practices like craniosacral therapy or chiropractic treatment, which aim to relieve tension in muscles and tissues of the neck and mouth. The price can range from $100 to $200 per session, dependent on the provider of care and length of treatment.
The figures could be higher or lower in the future, so ask your doctor to provide a more precise estimate to avoid financial surprises.
Key Takeaways
It is a condition characterized by a tight or short lingual frenulum connecting the tongue with an oral floor. It can lead to various issues like difficulty breastfeeding, speech issues, and oral hygiene problems in infants and adults. Should you or your kid suffer from this problem, find a reliable health professional to identify the best option to meet your needs. Treatment costs vary widely, so inquire about the estimated cost before your visit.