Tongue Tie Specialist

What is a tongue tie?

A tongue tie is an abnormality present at birth that occurs when the lingual frenulum — a band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth — is too short. When the frenulum is either too short or too tight, it can restrict movement in the tongue.

Normally, the frenulum develops toward the front of the mouth in utero and slowly moves toward the back of the tongue to encourage free movement of the tongue. If the frenulum doesn’t detach from the front as expected, it can leave a tight band of tissue right under the tongue that restricts its motion.

Some tongue ties are mild, but others can be thick enough to leave the entire tongue stuck to the floor of the mouth. Treating tongue ties during infancy is essential to promote healthy oral development.

What are the signs of a tongue tie?

The signs of a tongue tie typically depend on your child’s age. In infants and toddlers, a tongue tie can lead to:

• Difficulty breastfeeding
• Poor latching
• Nipple injuries (in breastfeeding mothers)
• Tongue appears visibly restricted

In older children, a tongue tie may cause:

• Speech impediments
• Difficulty playing wind instruments
• Cuts underneath the tongue (from the frenulum getting caught between the teeth)
• Tooth decay (cavities)

A short, tight frenulum may even restrict your child’s ability to lick their lips or clear food from their teeth with their tongue.

What are the treatments for a tongue tie?

The most common treatment for a tongue tie is a frenectomy. Traditionally, this procedure involves cutting the frenulum with a scalpel or scissors to promote motion in the tongue. However, the team at Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics offers laser surgery with the Biolase laser to sever the frenulum quickly and safely.

When compared to traditional tongue tie procedures, laser surgery typically results in:

• Less pain
• Shorter recovery time
• Minimal bleeding
• Less time at the dentist’s office
• Minimal tissue damage

After an initial evaluation, the team can determine whether laser tongue tie surgery is right for your child. 

To learn more about tongue tie laser surgery, call Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics or schedule an appointment online today.