Are you experiencing or have your children have difficulty breastfeeding, speaking, or even oral hygiene? If yes, it may be due to a condition known as tongue tie. A tongue tie can trigger a range of problems for adults and children. However, effective treatment can help improve oral function, speech, and general well-being.
Find out more about all you have 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 movement. A narrow, significant, or tightly woven ring of tissue (lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue’s point towards the bottom of your mouth.
Tongue Tie Vs. Lip Tie
The tongue tie and lip tie are conditions caused by a tight or short frenulum. This may restrict movement and cause various issues. A tongue tie is a sign that the frenulum beneath the tongue is too short or tight; the lip tie occurs when the frenulum connecting the upper lip with the gums becomes affected. Both of them differ in their area of impact and the kind of problems they can cause.
Complications and Problems
Here are some of the difficulties caused by a tooth tie and why getting treatment is crucial.
Difficulty With Breastfeeding
Infants who have a tongue tie may be unable to grasp the bottle or nipple, which can result in poor weight gain and malnourishment. This can result in frustrations for both the baby and the mother.
Speech Problems
When children with tongue ties grow and develop speech, they may be unable to make certain sounds and articulate. This is because the tongue can’t move freely and make the required movements to communicate.
Oral Hygiene Issues
It can be challenging to keep your mouth clean, which could cause an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Moreover, it can cause several orthodontic issues like overbite that can be difficult to resolve.
Orthodontic Issues
Some people with tongue ties may have orthodontic issues like misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, or overbites. In certain instances, a tooth crown may be utilized as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan to correct the issues and improve the function and appearance of teeth.
Difficulty With Eating and Digestion
As well as breastfeeding problems, tongue ties can lead to eating and digestion problems for adults and children. If the tongue cannot move correctly, it may be difficult to chew food properly and move it through the digestive tract properly.
Treatment Options
When you find a dentist you feel comfortable with, set up an appointment to discuss your concerns and develop a treatment plan, various treatments are available for tongue ties based on the severity of the condition and individual requirements. They include:
Frenotomy
A frenotomy procedure to treat tongue ties can be a fast and straightforward procedure that requires cutting or lasering away the tight band of tissue that blocks tongue movement. The procedure is usually performed for infants and may be performed in a pediatrician’s office, making it quite convenient. The procedure cost can vary considerably based on your health provider and where you live, ranging from $400 to $1,500; see more here.
Laser Surgery
Another option for the treatment of a tongue tie is tongue tie laser surgery, which utilizes lasers to cut through the frenulum. Some doctors prefer this method since it’s less invasive and leads to less bleeding and discomfort than traditional frenotomy. But, it can cost more.
Myofunctional Therapy
An exercise program strengthens the mouth’s muscles and improves oral function. Myofunctional therapy could be employed along with frenotomy as a standalone treatment. The cost can range between $1500 and $4,000, dependent on the healthcare professional and the duration of the treatment.
Bodywork
These include holistic treatments such as craniosacral therapies and chiropractic treatment, which aim to relieve tension in tissues and muscles of the mouth and neck. The price can range from $100 to $200 per session, based on the care provider and treatment duration.
These numbers can be higher or lower in the future, so seek advice from your doctor for a more accurate estimate to avoid financial surprises.
Key Takeaways
It is caused by slack or a small lingual frenulum connecting the tongue with your mouth’s floor. It can cause various issues, including difficulty breastfeeding, speech disorders, and oral hygiene problems for adults and infants. If your baby or child is suffering from this disorder, seek out a trusted medical professional to find the most effective treatment for your needs. Costs for treatment may vary greatly, so make sure to discuss estimated costs before the visit.
