What Is Ankyloglossia (Tongue Tie)?
Ankyloglossia, commonly known as "tongue tie," is a condition where the frenum under the tongue is unusually short, restricting tongue movement. This can impact oral development, feeding, speech, and swallowing, leading to various complications.
Approximately 4.8% of the population is affected by tongue tie, with a higher prevalence in males compared to females (3:1 ratio).
When you open your mouth and lift the tip of your tongue, you can see the lingual frenum (or frenulum), a band of tissue connecting your tongue to the floor of your mouth. In some cases, the frenum may be too short to allow full tongue mobility, or it may be hidden under the mucosal tissue, which is referred to as submucosal ankyloglossia.
What Causes Ankyloglossia?
The exact cause of tongue tie is unknown, but there is often a genetic predisposition involved.
What Problems Can Tongue Tie Cause?
To get an idea of what it's like to have ankyloglossia, try speaking or eating while keeping your tongue glued to the floor of your mouth—it’s tough! Ankyloglossia can impact people of all ages in various ways.
Infants: Tongue tie can cause breastfeeding challenges, including difficulty latching, milk expression, nipple pain for the mother, and struggles with introducing solid foods.
Children: Kids with tongue tie may experience difficulties chewing food, leading to "sloppy" eating, speech issues, poor oral hygiene (which may lead to tooth decay), misaligned teeth, changes in facial and jaw development, and compensatory habits like tongue thrusting.
Adults: Adults with ankyloglossia may continue to face speech difficulties, jaw pain, migraines, teeth clenching or grinding, and social discomfort in situations like eating or kissing. It can also contribute to poor dental health, including gum disease, dental crowding, and cavities.
How Is Tongue Tie Treated?
Once diagnosed, tongue tie can often be corrected through a procedure called a frenectomy (or frenulectomy or frenotomy). This simple, quick procedure, usually done under local anesthesia, involves removing the fibrous tissue of the frenum using a scalpel, scissors, or a laser. It typically takes just five minutes.
The Role of Orofacial Myologists in Tongue Tie Treatment
For children, teens, and adults, consulting an orofacial myologist before and after surgery is highly recommended. Pre- and post-operative exercises are crucial for minimizing scarring and improving recovery. After the frenum is released by an oral maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist, the tongue gains greater mobility.
The muscles of the tongue may be weakened due to being anchored down, so specific exercises are provided to strengthen them, allowing the tongue to move freely and rest properly. This helps in recapturing the dental freeway space, which is essential for overall oral health.
Additionally, an orofacial myologist can help correct a tongue thrust swallowing pattern, a common issue accompanying tongue tie. Correct chewing and swallowing skills are important for individuals of all ages.
Why Seek Help from an Orofacial Myologist?
Improper tongue placement, poor chewing, swallowing dysfunction, and incorrect speech patterns do not correct themselves over time. People with tongue tie often develop compensatory habits that are difficult to break. The expertise of an orofacial myologist can help eliminate these issues and improve overall oral health.
If you've been diagnosed with ankyloglossia, consulting with an orofacial myologist can ensure you achieve optimal health. Contact us today to learn more!
Comentários