Many people have probably heard of tongue-tie conditions. It occurs when the band of tissue under the tongue, called the frenulum, is shorter than usual. This can limit the movement of the tongue but can lead to some challenges. In this guide, we will uncover some common myths about tongue-tie and its treatment. If you’re looking for a tongue-tie release near you, understanding the facts can help you make informed treatment decisions for your child.
Myth 1: Tongue-Tie is Rare
Many people believe that tongue tie is a rare condition, but studies suggest it actually affects around 4-11% of newborns. This means that many babies are born with tongue-tie. Some may not experience problems, while others may have difficulty feeding or speaking. However, early detection of signs is necessary to get proper advice from a health professional.
Myth 2: Tongue-Tie Always Needs Treatment
Another myth is that all tongue-tie cases require treatment. This is not entirely true. It’s important to understand that some children with tongue-tie may not have any issues. If a child is feeding well and growing normally, with no problems in speech, then treatment may not be necessary. Treatment is necessary only when tongue tie is interfering with the feeding experience or language development.
Myth 3: The Procedure for Treatment is Painful
Most parents fear taking their children for tongue-tie procedures because they assume it will be painful for their children. However, frenotomy, which is the most common procedure for releasing a tongue tie, is rapid and usually induces minimal discomfort. Most of the time, the procedure can be conducted in a professional clinic with no or anesthesia for infants. After the procedure, most children get back to their daily activities almost immediately.
Myth 4: Tongue-Tie Causes Permanent Speech Problems
While a tongue-tie can impact speech, it doesn’t mean that every child with it will have permanent speech problems. Some children may develop normally without any speech delays, while others might need speech therapy after treatment to help them pronounce words correctly. The key is to monitor speech and language development and consult professionals if concerns arise.
The Treatment Process
If a child does need treatment for tongue-tie, here’s what often happens:
- Evaluation: A dentist will check the tongue’s movement and how it affects feeding or speech.
- Frenotomy: If necessary, the procedure to release the frenulum can be performed. It usually takes a few minutes.
- Aftercare: Parents may be given specific aftercare instructions. This can include exercises for the tongue to ensure proper healing and movement.
- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups may be scheduled to monitor the child’s progress.
Why Does Accurate Information Matter?
Understanding tongue-tie and its treatment can help parents make informed decisions. It’s always best to consult healthcare professionals if you have concerns about your child’s health or development. They can provide evidence-based information tailored to individual needs, ensuring the proper function of the tongue in the mouth and overall oral health.
Improve the Feeding and Speech of Your Child with Tongue-Tie Treatment!
At SCV Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide gentle and effective tongue-tie treatment to help improve feeding and speech. Our experienced team of kids’ dentists near you understands the challenges tongue-tie can cause and offers personalized care for babies, children, and adults. We use safe and modern techniques to ensure a comfortable experience and the most favourable results from the treatment.
Want to improve speech and oral function? Schedule a consultation today at the SCV Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics!
FAQs
1. Can tongue-tie affect breastfeeding?
Yes, tongue-tie can make breastfeeding difficult for some babies. They may struggle to latch properly, leading to feeding problems.
2. Is tongue-tie the same for everyone?
No, tongue-tie varies from person to person. Some people may have a more severe form than others.
3. What should parents look for regarding speech development?
Parents should observe if their child is having trouble pronouncing certain sounds or if they are not talking properly. Consulting a professional can help if concerns arise.
