Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that may seem minor but can have a significant impact on a child’s feeding, speech, and oral development. Whether you’re a new parent noticing feeding challenges or a caregiver navigating delayed speech, understanding the treatment options available—both surgical and non-surgical—can help you make the best decision for your child’s needs.
Understanding Tongue Tie in Children
Tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum—the small band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is
unusually short, thick, or tight. This restricts tongue movement and can cause a range of issues, especially in infants and young children.
Common effects of tongue tie include:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding
- Poor latch, leading to inadequate weight gain
- Speech delays or articulation challenges as the child grows
- Trouble with oral movements like licking, kissing, or cleaning food from teeth
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but tongue tie may be genetic and can vary in severity from mild to more restrictive forms.
Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches
Not all cases of tongue tie require surgery. For mild or borderline cases, conservative treatments can sometimes improve function and comfort without a procedure.
Lactation Support
For infants struggling with breastfeeding, working with a certified lactation consultant can be incredibly helpful. They can guide positioning, latch techniques, and feeding strategies tailored to your baby’s needs.
Oral Motor Therapy
Speech-language pathologists or occupational therapists may recommend oral exercises to strengthen tongue movement and improve coordination. This can be especially helpful for toddlers or children with mild restrictions who are beginning to show speech concerns.
Myofunctional Therapy
This involves a set of specific exercises that improve tongue posture, breathing, and oral habits. It’s most often used in conjunction with other treatments and can be effective in some mild cases.
These non-surgical approaches are typically monitored over time. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be needed.
Surgical Treatment Options and When They’re Needed
When tongue tie significantly interferes with feeding, speech, or oral development—and conservative treatments are not effective—surgical intervention may be recommended.
Frenotomy
A frenotomy is a simple, quick procedure in which the tight frenulum is clipped or released using sterile scissors or a laser. It’s often performed in infants and can sometimes be done in-office with minimal discomfort and no anesthesia. Many babies breastfeed more effectively almost immediately afterward.
Frenuloplasty
In more complex cases, especially in older children or when the frenulum is thicker, a frenuloplasty may be recommended. This surgical procedure involves repositioning and suturing the tissue and is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. It allows for more precise correction and better long-term results in certain cases.
Risks and Recovery
Both procedures are considered safe, with minimal complications. Mild discomfort and swelling may occur, and post-operative tongue exercises are often recommended to prevent reattachment and support healing.
Finding the Right Treatment Path in Savannah & Pooler, GA
If you suspect your child has a tongue tie, early evaluation by a specialist like Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat is key. They can assess the degree of restriction and help guide whether conservative care or surgery is the best path forward.
Every child is unique, and so is their treatment plan. With timely care and support, children with tongue tie can go on to thrive—feeding well, speaking clearly, and growing with confidence.
Contact Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat at (912) 355-2335 to schedule an evaluation for your child’s tongue tie.