If you’ve recently been told that your baby has a tongue tie, or you’re researching this condition for the first time, you’re probably wondering what it means and how it might affect your child. At Plainsboro Dental Services, Dr. Priti Dagli, DDS, FICOI, and our team want to help you understand this common condition and what options are available for treatment.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie explained: Medically known as ankyloglossia, a tongue tie is a condition present at birth where the band of tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (called the lingual frenulum) is too short, too thick, or too tight. This restriction limits the tongue’s range of motion, making it difficult for the tongue to move freely.
In simple terms, think of it like a tether that keeps the tongue from reaching its full potential. While everyone has this band of tissue under their tongue, in cases of tongue tie, it extends too far toward the tip of the tongue or doesn’t have enough elasticity to allow normal movement.
How Common Is Ankyloglossia?
Tongue tie is more common than many people realize, affecting approximately 4–11% of newborns. It appears to run in families and is more frequently diagnosed in boys than girls. Many cases go undiagnosed until feeding difficulties arise in infancy or speech problems develop in early childhood.
Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Tie
The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the restriction. Here are some common signs to watch for:
In Infants:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Poor weight gain due to ineffective feeding
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Prolonged feeding sessions
- Fussiness at the breast
- Gas and colic symptoms from swallowing air
In Older Children and Adults:
- Speech difficulties, particularly with sounds like “t,” “d,” “z,” “s,” “th,” and “l”
- Difficulty moving the tongue from side to side
- Trouble licking ice cream or playing wind instruments
- Inability to stick the tongue out past the lower front teeth
- Heart-shaped tongue tip when extended
- Dental hygiene challenges
Why Does Tongue Tie Matter?
Beyond feeding and speech concerns, untreated tongue tie can lead to other complications. In nursing mothers, it can cause nipple pain and damage, potentially leading to early weaning. For children, it may contribute to dental problems, including gaps between the lower front teeth or difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Some research also suggests that tongue tie may contribute to sleep-disordered breathing and orthodontic issues as children grow.
Getting Help at Plainsboro Dental Services
If you suspect your child has a tongue tie, or if you’re experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. At Plainsboro Dental Services, Dr. Dagli has extensive experience diagnosing and treating tongue tie and lip tie conditions.
The good news is that tongue tie is treatable, and early intervention often leads to the best outcomes. A simple procedure called a frenectomy can release the tight tissue and restore normal tongue function.
Don’t let concerns about tongue tie keep you up at night. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and provide the specialized care your family needs. Contact Plainsboro Dental Services at 609-716-7100 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dagli and learn more about how we can help your child thrive.