Tongue tie is a common condition in infants that can cause discomfort and difficulty with breastfeeding. Tongue tie restricts the movement of the tongue; it is caused by an abnormally tight or thick band of tissue called the frenulum that attaches the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. This can lead to difficulties in latching, poor weight gain and painful breastfeeding for both the baby and the mother.
Tongue tie release, also known as frenectomy or frenotomy, is a gentle procedure that can provide relief and improve breastfeeding outcomes for infants with tongue tie.
Understanding Tongue Tie
The frenulum is a naturally occurring tissue in the mouth that helps to stabilize the tongue. In some cases, the frenulum may be abnormally tight or thick, and this is where tongue tie occurs. Tongue tie can vary in severity from mild to severe, and its effects can vary from person to person.
Infants with tongue tie may have difficulty extending their tongues or moving them from side to side. This can lead to difficulties in latching onto the breast, leading to poor feeding and weight gain. A tight frenulum can also cause discomfort for the baby during breastfeeding and may result in sore nipples for the mother.
The Tongue Tie Release Procedure
Tongue tie release is a simple, outpatient procedure that involves the division of the tight frenulum to allow for improved movement of the tongue. The procedure can be performed by a pediatric dentist, oral surgeon or other health care professional experienced in tongue tie releases.
During the procedure, the health care professional will use a gentle and precise technique to release the frenulum. This can be done using a laser or scissors. The choice of method may depend on the severity of the tongue tie and the preference of the health care professional. The procedure itself is quick, with minimal discomfort for the baby.
Benefits of Tongue Tie Release
Tongue tie release offers several benefits for infants and their families. Some of these benefits include:
1. Improved breastfeeding: By releasing the tight frenulum, infants can achieve a better latch, allowing for more efficient feeding and increased milk transfer. This can result in improved weight gain and a more comfortable breastfeeding experience for both the baby and the mother.
2. Enhanced speech development: Tongue tie can affect speech development in young children. By addressing tongue tie early on, speech-related difficulties can be minimized, setting the foundation for proper speech and language development.
3. Reduced risk of dental problems: Tongue tie can contribute to oral health issues such as tooth decay and malocclusion. By releasing the tongue tie, the risk of these dental problems can be reduced.
4. Improved quality of life: By providing relief from the discomfort and challenges associated with tongue tie, the procedure can enhance the overall quality of life for infants and their families.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following the tongue tie release procedure, infants may experience some mild discomfort or swelling in the area. However, this usually resolves within a few days. It is important to continue breastfeeding and maintain good oral hygiene practices.
After the procedure, health care professionals may provide specific instructions on how to clean the area and promote healing. This may include gentle stretches or exercises to prevent reattachment of the frenulum.
Conclusion
Tongue tie release is a gentle procedure that can provide much-needed relief and improve breastfeeding outcomes for infants with tongue tie. By addressing the tight frenulum early on, parents can help their infants experience improved feeding, speech development and overall quality of life. If you suspect your baby may have tongue tie, consult with Dr. Morgan to discuss the best course of action for your child’s well-being.