A tongue tie is a physical malformation of the band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This condition stops the tongue from moving freely. It can cause a number of problems for babies and according to the National Library of Medicine, tongue tie is seen among 1% to 10% of newborns. There are treatment options for this condition, though. Keep reading to get answers to your most important questions about tongue tie surgery.

1. What Causes a Tongue Tie?

There is no definitive research to explain what causes a child to develop a tongue tie. This condition does sometimes run in families, though, so it's safe to assume it could be genetic. Mayo Clinic notes that it's also known that the condition is more common in boys than in girls.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie presents in newborns, but it can sometimes be difficult to determine if a newborn has this condition are not. Some of the symptoms that a parent might notice include problems with breastfeeding. The baby won't be able to latch on properly to the nipple. A mother may notice a loose latch, gumming or biting the nipple, and nipple pain. This can lead to problems with a baby gaining weight since they aren't receiving enough nutrition.

3. What Treatments Are Available?

In some cases, the thick band of tissue under the tongue will stretch and grow along with the baby. This essentially means that the baby will outgrow the problem. If the frenulum, the band of tissue, grows and stretches enough, the child should be able to eat properly and speak properly. Some parents do not wish to wait to see if this happens, though, as there is the risk of the child having eating problems while nursing or drinking from a bottle. If a parent wishes for the tongue tie to be fixed, there is a surgical procedure available.

A tongue tie surgery is usually only recommended if a team of professionals determines the child will suffer without it. This team could include a pediatrician, an ENT, a lactation nurse, and a speech therapist. If the professionals determine the child should have tongue tie surgery, the surgery will likely be carried out with the parent's consent.

4. How Is Tongue Tie Surgery Done?

A frenectomy is done using a scalpel, laser, or scissors. The procedure is quick and is often completed without anesthesia. There are few nerve endings or blood vessels in this area so it's safe to do as an outpatient surgical procedure. At our office, we complete the surgery in minutes using an exceptionally precise laser.

These are some base facts on tongue tie and how it can be treated, but every situation is unique. If you're concerned that your child could be in need of tongue tie surgery, don't fret. Please contact Dentistry With a Touch of Art today for more information.