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The Benefits of Tongue-Tie Release for Children: What Parents Need to Know

Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that affects around 4-10% of newborns. It occurs when the thin piece of tissue (the lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or short, restricting tongue movement. While some children with tongue-tie experience no issues, others may face problems with breastfeeding, speech, or dental health as they grow.

In this blog, we’ll explore what tongue-tie is, the benefits of a tongue-tie release procedure, and how it can positively impact your child’s oral and overall health.

What is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie is a condition that limits the range of motion of the tongue. In babies, it can make breastfeeding difficult, as the baby may struggle to latch properly. As children grow older, tongue-tie can affect speech development, cause issues with dental hygiene, and even lead to problems with eating.

How Does Tongue-Tie Affect Children?
1. Breastfeeding: Babies with tongue-tie often have difficulty latching properly during breastfeeding. This can result in frustration for both the baby and the mother, potentially causing feeding problems, weight issues, and maternal discomfort.
2. Speech Development: As your child grows, the restricted tongue movement can interfere with the ability to pronounce certain sounds like "t," "d," "z," or "r." This can lead to speech delays or challenges, requiring intervention.
3. Oral Hygiene: Children with tongue-tie may find it difficult to clear food debris from their teeth with their tongue, increasing the risk of cavities or gum disease.
4. Dental Alignment: In some cases, tongue-tie can also affect the way the teeth develop, potentially causing misalignment or other dental issues that require orthodontic treatment.

What is Tongue-Tie Release?
Tongue-tie release, also known as a lingual frenectomy, is a simple procedure that involves snipping or using a laser to release the tight lingual frenulum, allowing the tongue to move freely. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and has a fast recovery time.

Benefits of Tongue-Tie Release
1. Improved Breastfeeding: One of the most immediate benefits of a tongue-tie release in infants is the improvement in breastfeeding. Babies are able to latch properly, which can reduce maternal discomfort and ensure the baby is getting proper nutrition.
2. Enhanced Speech Development: A tongue-tie release can help your child articulate sounds more clearly, supporting speech development and reducing the need for speech therapy in the future.
3. Better Oral Hygiene: With increased tongue mobility, your child can more easily clean their teeth and gums naturally, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and cavities. Good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy gums and teeth as your child grows. For more tips on maintaining your child’s dental hygiene, read our Comprehensive Checklist for Your Child's Next Dental Visit.
4. Improved Dental Alignment: By preventing misalignment caused by restricted tongue movement, a tongue-tie release can reduce the need for orthodontic treatments later in life.
5. Boosted Confidence: Being able to speak clearly and eat without discomfort can greatly improve your child's confidence, especially in social settings like school.

A Healthy Smile for Life
Good dental habits started early will serve your child well into adulthood. By reinforcing the importance of brushing and flossing as they grow older, you’re helping them maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure
The tongue-tie release procedure is quick, often taking just a few minutes. It can be performed using a laser. For infants, the procedure is often done with just a local anesthetic. Older children may be given a light sedative or general anesthesia if needed.

After the procedure, most children experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within a day or two. Parents will need to perform gentle tongue exercises to help prevent the frenulum from reattaching.

Concerned about how your child will handle a dental procedure? Learn more about how we use IV sedation for kids to ensure a stress-free experience at our practice.

When Should You Consider a Tongue-Tie Release?
If your child is experiencing difficulty with breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene, it’s worth discussing tongue-tie with Dr. Duffy. The procedure is safe, effective, and can have long-lasting benefits for your child’s oral and overall health.

At Duffy Dental Ranch, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your child’s dental care. If you have any concerns or questions about a potential tongue-tie or think your child might benefit from a tongue-tie release, don’t hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment online.