Tongue Tie: Symptoms, Treatment, and Solutions for Infants
ANKYLOGLOSSIA also known as Tongue tie is a common condition that affects newborns. It occurs when the thin piece of tissue that connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, limiting the baby’s ability to move their tongue. This tight tissue can cause difficulty with breastfeeding, speech development, and even eating solid foods later on. In some cases, the tongue tie can be corrected with a minor procedure, which can make a significant difference in the baby’s life. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Challenges of tongue-tie
How children with tongue tie are managed
Signs and Symptoms:
- In Infants: Difficulty breastfeeding, poor latch, or trouble with sucking.
- In Children and Adults: Trouble with speech (e.g., difficulty pronouncing certain words), difficulty with certain foods (like chewing or swallowing), and sometimes a restricted range of tongue movement.
CHALLENGES OF TONGUE-TIE
Limiting movement of the tongue
Difficulty latch and sucking
Spaces between the lower from teeth
Difficulty pronouncing certain alphabets sounds
Low self esteem
Difficulty achieving proper oral hygiene
Bullying by peers
HOW CHILDREN WITH TONGUE TIE ARE MANAGED
A frenotomy (a medical procedure to cut the piece of flesh under the tongue) can be performed.
They can monitor to determine whether the frenulum will stretch
Breastfeeding support from an experienced health care professional
Assistance from a speech therapy to help with language development
Tongue exercises to help improve movement
Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or healthcare decisions.