Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition found in infants where the tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the frenulum) is shorter or tighter than usual. This restriction can limit the tongue’s movement, affecting an infant’s ability to feed, swallow, and eventually speak.
While tongue tie can be concerning for new parents, the good news is that it’s a treatable condition with a tongue tie surgery. Here, we’ll explore what tongue tie is, its symptoms, how it affects infants, and when to seek treatment from the best Pediatric Dental Clinic in Dubai.
What is Tongue Tie in Little Children?
Tongue tie occurs when the frenulum, which is the small band of tissue under the child’s tongue, is too tight or short. This prevents the tongue from moving freely, which can cause problems with breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and other activities that require proper tongue movement.
In mild cases, the tongue may only have limited mobility, while in other cases, the tongue may be almost entirely stuck to the floor of the mouth. Tongue tie can vary in severity, which is why some infants may experience more significant problems than others.
How Does Tongue Tie Occur?
The Tongue frenel attachment develops before birth as part of normal fetal growth. Usually, the frenulum naturally thins out and allows the tongue to move freely. The frenulum in infants with tongue-tie remains thick or short.
Breastfeeding is one of the primary concerns for parents of infants with tongue-tie. Babies rely on their tongues to latch onto the breast and create a proper seal to feed efficiently.
If the tongue is restricted by the frenulum, the infant may not be able to latch deeply enough, which can cause certain concerns for both mother and baby, requiring the assistance of Pediatric Dentists and the best Pediatrician in Dubai.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Tie in Infants
#1. Difficulty Breastfeeding
One of the most common signs of tongue tie is trouble latching onto the breast. Infants with tongue-tie may not be able to latch properly, which can lead to poor feeding, slow weight gain, and long or frequent feedings.
#2. Clicking Sound While Feeding
If you hear a clicking or smacking sound during breastfeeding or bottle feeding, it may be a sign that your baby is struggling to maintain a good latch due to tongue tie.
#3. Pain for the Mother
Mothers who breastfeed infants with tongue-tie often experience nipple pain, sore nipples, or even cracked and bleeding nipples because the baby cannot latch properly. This can make breastfeeding very uncomfortable or difficult for both mother and child.
#4. Difficulty Moving the Tongue
Infants with tongue tie may have trouble lifting their tongue to the roof of their mouth or moving their tongue from side to side. They may also have difficulty sticking their tongue out past their lips.
#5. Weight Gain Issues
If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, it could be because they are not getting enough milk due to feeding difficulties and need tongue and lip-tie surgery.
#6. Speech Development Concerns
While this becomes a concern later in early childhood and school age, tongue tie can impact speech development if left untreated. The restricted movement can make it difficult for a child to pronounce certain sounds.
Treatment Options for Tongue Tie
If the best Kids Dentist in Dubai determines that tongue-tie treatment is necessary, the most common approach is a simple procedure called a frenectomy. This procedure involves cutting the frenulum to free up the tongue’s movement. The procedure is quick and often performed in a Pediatric Dentist’s office, and requires little to no recovery time.
Not all cases of tongue tie require treatment like tongue-tie surgery. If your baby is feeding well and gaining weight, and if the tongue tie is not causing any problems, your Pediatric Dentist may suggest a “wait and see” approach. Mild cases of tongue tie often resolve on their own as the baby grows. If the tongue tie is affecting feeding or causing other issues, early treatment is usually recommended to prevent complications.
Frenectomy Procedure
A frenectomy at the best Pediatric Dental Clinic in Dubai is a minor procedure that involves removing or releasing the frenulum using a special radio frequency device. It is quick and usually lasts only a few minutes.
Since the frenulum has few blood vessels or nerves, most babies experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Many babies are able to breastfeed immediately after the frenectomy, and parents often notice a significant improvement in feeding.
Recovery After Tongue-Tie Treatment
After a frenectomy, most babies recover quickly. Your Pediatric Dentist in Dubai may recommend simple exercises to help the tongue heal properly and to prevent the frenulum from reattaching. These exercises normally involve gentle stretches that parents can perform at home.
Feeding usually improves right away after the frenectomy procedure in infants. Mothers who previously experienced pain while breastfeeding often find relief, and babies can latch more easily and feed more effectively.
Hence, tongue-tie in infants is a common condition that can impact feeding and speech development. While it can be concerning for parents, the good news is that tongue tie is treatable, and most babies recover quickly after a simple frenectomy procedure.
If you suspect your baby may have a tongue tie, consult your Pediatrician or Pediatric Dentist in Dubai to determine the best treatment option. With early treatment, many feeding difficulties can be resolved, ensuring your baby gets the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.
Expert Care for Tongue Tie at myPediaclinic in Dubai!
At myPediaclinic, both Pediatricians and Pediatric Dentists in Dubai work together to provide comprehensive care for infants with tongue-tie. Our experienced team can accurately diagnose the condition early on, helping parents understand how it may affect feeding and overall development.
Our Pediatricians in Dubai monitor your baby’s growth and ensure proper feeding, while Pediatric Dentists offer specialized treatment like frenectomy to safely release the tongue and improve mobility. Our collaborative approach ensures that your child receives the best care for a smooth and healthy recovery.
