Tongue tie or ankyloglossia refers to a relatively uncommon condition in which a thin membrane known as the lingual frenulum connects the base of the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. This connects restricts the tongue’s movement and can cause issues with a person’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe, and can also contribute to numerous dental and oral health problems. Tongue tie release, or frenotomy, is a common procedure performed in children, but can also be beneficial for adults seeking relief from the symptoms associated with tongue tie. In this comprehensive overview, Dr. Tad Morgan will discuss the causes, symptoms, risks and benefits of tongue tie release and how it can help adults relieve their symptoms.
Causes & Symptoms of Tongue Tie in Adults
The cause of ankyloglossia is not known, but it is believed to be the result of genetics or prenatal environmental factors. A condition called “tongue tie” is typically present from birth and can persist throughout a person’s adulthood if it goes undetected. Some visible signs of a tongue tie in adults include difficulty sticking the tongue out past the lips, a heart-shaped tongue when stuck out and difficulty moving the tongue side to side. Symptoms may include difficulty eating, speaking, swallowing, and breathing, tooth decay and other dental issues, or problems with breastfeeding and poor quality of life.
Risks and Benefits of Tongue Tie Release in Adults
While many people live with a tongue tie without any problems, others may experience symptoms that can greatly affect their quality of life. As a result, some individuals may seek out a tongue tie release procedure known as frenotomy, in which the thin membrane connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is cut to allow the tongue to move more freely. The most common benefit of tongue tie release in adults is improved eating, speaking, and breathing. Furthermore, people who have undergone the procedure have reported being able to stick their tongues out further, as well as feel more comfortable when speaking and eating.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with having a tongue tie release. These include scarring, loss of taste or sensation in the tongue, bleeding, pain, and infection. Adults who are considering getting a frenotomy should consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits, as well as make an informed decision that is right for them.
How Tongue Tie Release is Performed
Frenotomy is a relatively simple surgical procedure that is typically performed in a dentist’s office or oral surgeon. The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis and can take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the tongue tie. The patient will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area and then the thin membrane is cut. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to their regular activities soon after the procedure.
Depending on the severity of the tongue tie, the patient may be given exercises to perform at home to help stretch the tongue and prevent reattachment. In some cases, the tongue tie may need to be re-cut if it reattaches before the patient’s symptoms improve.
Conclusion
Tongue tie is a condition in which the lingual frenulum connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth and restricts the tongue’s movement, leading to difficulty eating, speaking, and breathing, as well as dental and oral health issues. Frenotomy, or tongue tie release, is a surgical procedure that is commonly performed to reduce or alleviate the symptoms associated with tongue tie in adults. There are benefits and risks associated with the procedure, and individuals who are considering having a frenotomy should consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits, as well as make an informed decision that is right for them.
Dr. Tad Morgan is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with extensive experience in performing frenotomy. He is a leading expert in the field and works with each patient to develop a unique treatment plan to meet their individual needs and goals. To learn more about the benefits of tongue tie release or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Morgan, please visit his website at www.drtadmorgan.com.