Can a Tongue-tie Go Away On Its Own?

What is a Tongue-Tie?

A tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue's range of motion. We all have fibers of tissue called a frenum that connect our lips and tongue to the oral structures. A frenum becomes a “tie” when it is shorter, thicker, or inflexible and thus affects oral function. This can lead to problems with breastfeeding, speech, transitioning to eating solid food, and even sleep. While some may believe a tongue-tie can resolve itself, it's essential to understand the potential implications and treatment options.

Signs That My Child Has A Tongue Tie

If your child has a tongue-tie, you may notice certain signs. They might struggle with latching during breastfeeding, leading to inadequate nutrition and weight gain. As they grow older, transitioning to solid foods can become challenging. Speech difficulties might arise, and they may have trouble articulating certain sounds or words. Other signs include difficulty lifting the tongue up to the upper teeth when the mouth is open wide which can impact sleep. Additionally, your child might exhibit discomfort or limited movement when trying to stick out their tongue, or they could show unusual patterns of eating or chewing. These challenges can affect their overall oral development and well-being, which highlights the importance of early detection and intervention for tongue-tie conditions.

Can a Tongue-Tie Resolve Itself?

If a tongue tie is impacting the areas of feeding, speech, or sleep, then we recommend an functional evaluation with a speech language pathologist (SLP), IBCLC or pediatric dentist trained in tethered tissues. Without treatment, a tongue-tie can lead to speech difficulties, dental problems, and other oral health issues.

Treatment Options for Tongue-Ties

The most common treatment for a tongue-tie is a procedure called a frenectomy. During a frenectomy, a release provider will make a small incision in the frenum, which is the piece of skin connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, in order to allow the tongue to have better range of motion and function. It is important to have pre-operative therapy before a frenectomy to optimize post-operative outcomes and help retrain the tongue muscles in proper movement and function.

The Role of a Pediatric Dentist in Tongue-Tie Treatment

A pediatric dentist plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating tongue-ties. They can assess the severity of the condition, discuss potential implications, and provide treatment options. Yhe pediatric dentist should have a collaborative approach with your child’s functional provider (SLP/ IBCLC/OT/PT, etc) to optimize post-operative outcomes. Regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist can also help monitor the child's oral development and catch any potential issues early.

Your Child Deserves The Best Possible Care

If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie, don't wait and hope for it to resolve on its own. Our team is here for you! Reach out to Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry today. Under the expert care of Dr. Angie Sage, we provide comprehensive tongue-tie assessments and treatments to ensure your child's optimal oral health. Call us now at (210) 822-8381 and let us help your child live a life unrestricted by a tongue-tie.