Tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter or tighter than usual. This can restrict the movement of the tongue, leading to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and oral hygiene. The Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates helps patients suffering from tongue tie. Our practice serves many locations, including Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, Winter Garden, Celebration, Lake Nona, Lake Mary, Orange City, and Orlando, FL.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Tongue Tie
The symptoms of tongue tie can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In infants, tongue tie may lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, resulting in poor weight gain or frustration for both the baby and the mother. Signs that an infant may have tongue tie include difficulty latching, prolonged feeding times, and clicking sounds during breastfeeding.
In older children and adults, tongue tie can cause challenges with speech, particularly with sounds that require tongue movement, such as "t," "d," "l," and "s." Additionally, people with tongue tie may experience difficulties with oral hygiene, as the restricted tongue movement can make it challenging to clean the teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child or yourself, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for evaluation.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
At The Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates in Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, Winter Garden, Celebration, Lake Nona, Lake Mary, Orange City, and Orlando, FL, our experienced providers will conduct a thorough evaluation for patients with possible tongue tie. This assessment will include a physical examination of the tongue and oral cavity, as well as a review of any associated symptoms.
Treatment Options for Tongue Tie
Treatment for tongue tie may vary based on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced. In many cases, if the tongue tie is mild and not causing significant issues, no treatment may be necessary. However, if the condition is affecting breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene, intervention may be recommended.
One common treatment option is a simple surgical procedure known as a frenotomy. This procedure involves snipping the tight band of tissue to free the tongue, allowing for improved movement. Frenotomy is performed in a quick and safe manner, often with minimal discomfort and a fast recovery time.
For more severe cases, a frenuloplasty may be performed, which involves a more extensive surgical procedure to correct the tongue tie. Our providers will discuss the most appropriate treatment option based on the patient’s individual needs and circumstances.
Get Help Identifying and Treating Tongue Tie
Tongue tie is a condition that can have pervasive effects on oral health and development, but it’s not difficult to treat once it’s identified. At The Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates, we provide personalized care for patients in Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, Winter Garden, Celebration, Lake Nona, Lake Mary, Orange City, and Orlando, FL. If you suspect that you or your child may have tongue tie or have concerns about oral health, call us at (407) 644-4883.
