Are you experiencing or have your children encountered difficulty breastfeeding, speaking, and oral hygiene? If yes, it may be caused by a condition called tongue tie. A tongue tie could cause various problems for adults and children, and effective treatment can improve oral function, speech, and general well-being.
Find out more about all you need to know about tongue-tie.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
Ankyloglossia, often called tongue tie, is a genetic condition restricting the tongue’s movement. A small, large, or tight ring of tissue (lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue’s top to the floor of the mouth.
Tongue Tie Vs. Lip Tie
Lip and tongue ties are caused by a tight or short frenulum that could restrict movement and create various problems. A tongue tie is when the frenulum beneath the tongue isn’t long enough or tight enough, and a lip tie occurs when the frenulum that connects the upper lip to the gums gets damaged. Both situations differ in the place of origin and the particular problems they may cause.
Complications and Problems
Here are a few difficulties caused by a tooth tie and why getting treatment is crucial.
Difficulty With Breastfeeding
Children with a tongue tie might have trouble latching onto the nipple or bottle, which can cause inadequate weight gain and malnutrition. This can lead to frustration for both the infant and the mother.
Speech Problems
As children with tongue ties grow and develop speech, they cannot make certain sounds and articulate. This is because the tongue cannot move freely and make the necessary movements to communicate.
Oral Hygiene Issues
It can be challenging to keep your mouth clean, leading to an increased chance of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, it can trigger many orthodontic problems like overbite, which can be very frustrating.
Orthodontic Issues
A few people with a tongue tie may suffer from orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, or overbites. Occasionally, dental crowns may be utilized as a complete treatment plan to address the issues and improve teeth’ overall function and appearance.
Difficulty With Eating and Digestion
As well as breastfeeding problems, tongue ties can cause eating and digestive problems for adults and children. If the tongue can’t move well, it isn’t easy to chew food or move into the digestive system properly.
Treatment Options
Depending on the severity and individual requirements, various treatments are available for tongue ties. See here below:
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 blocks tongue movement. The procedure is usually performed for infants and may be done in a pediatrician’s office, which is convenient. The cost for this procedure could vary significantly based on the healthcare provider and where you live, ranging from $400 to $1,500.
Laser Surgery
Another option for treating a tongue tie is laser surgery, which uses lasers to cut through the frenulum. Some healthcare providers prefer this option because it’s more minimally invasive and results in less bleeding and pain than conventional frenotomy. However, tongue tie surgery using a laser can also cost more.
Myofunctional Therapy
A series of exercises are designed to strengthen the mouth muscles and improve oral function. Myofunctional therapy could be employed along with frenotomy as a standalone treatment. The price can vary between $1,500 and $4,000, dependent on the healthcare professional and the length of the treatment.
Bodywork
This can include holistic practices such as craniosacral therapy and chiropractic therapy, designed to relieve tension in muscles and tissues of the mouth and neck. The price can range from $100 to $200 per session, based on the doctor and the length of treatment.
These figures may be either way, and it’s advisable to seek advice from your doctor to provide a more precise estimate to avoid financial surprises.
Key Takeaways
A tongue tie is a condition defined by a tight or small lingual frenulum connecting the tongue to your mouth’s floor. It could cause various problems, including difficulty breastfeeding, speech problems, and oral hygiene issues in infants and adults. If either you or your children suffer from this problem, find a reputable healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Treatment costs can vary significantly, and you should inquire about the estimated cost before your visit.