Tongue tie in children is missed far more often than it is found. The signs are subtle, and they appear long before anyone mentions speech.
What a tongue tie actually is
A tongue tie is an embryological remnant of tissue. It sits in the midline, between the undersurface of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. Because of that position, it restricts the normal, flexible movement of the tongue. Tongue tie in children therefore affects function long before it affects appearance.
Attachments vary widely. Some are typical, while others present as one of many variants. Because the presentation differs so much, the condition is frequently missed by professionals during evaluation.
Speech signs that bring parents in
Altered speech is the most common trigger for assessment. Untreated tongue tie in children makes certain sounds difficult, including CH, S, M, K, G, N, T, D, L, R and Z.
Some stutter. Others quietly avoid certain words or talking situations altogether. That avoidance is easy to mistake for shyness.
Signs from birth: the baby
- Poor latch at breast or bottle
- Falling asleep while feeding, from exhaustion
- Fussiness and frequent crying
- Reflux symptoms
- Poor weight gain
- Short sleep patterns
- Congested nose
- Feeding more frequently
- Gassy burps
Signs from birth: the mother
- Difficulty feeding
- Cracked nipples
- Painful nursing
- Poor latch and poor breast drainage
- Nipple thrush
- Feeling that feeding has become a full-time job
Who should be involved
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, tongue tie in children needs expert attention. It does not resolve on its own. Therefore a team approach works best.
- Gynaecologist
- Pediatric dentist
- Speech therapist
- Lactation consultant
- Myofunctional trainer
- Body worker
- ENT specialist
How the release is done
Release using Erbium or Diode lasers is a short, simple in-office procedure. It can be done with or without conscious sedation. Lasers remove the need for sutures and antibiotics, and often for painkillers as well.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled at one week and two weeks. Stretch exercises are then practised three to four times daily for four to six weeks. You can read more about the laser tongue tie procedure used here.
What happens if it is left
The benefits of early diagnosis far outweigh the risks of waiting. Untreated restriction can contribute to:
- High arched palate
- Crowded teeth
- Untimely, unplanned extractions for orthodontic reasons
- Mouth breathing
- Bruxism
- Snoring
- Sleep disorders
Pediatric dentistry sits close to the science of developing tissues. For that reason these concerns belong in the pediatric office as a matter of protocol. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry also encourages early assessment of feeding and oral function.
Book a tongue tie assessment in Dubai
If feeding, sleep or speech is a struggle, an assessment will give you a clear answer. Call +971 50 682 3462 or book an appointment with Dr. Imneet Madan in Dubai.
