Does Your Child Really Need Tongue Tie Surgery? What You Should Know

According to one estimate, between 4% and 10% of babies are born with a condition known as tongue tie. This problem occurs when the lingual frenum (the piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is too short or thick, restricting the tongue’s movement. In many cases, the only way to correct this issue is via a surgery known as a frenectomy.

Understandably, you might be reluctant to consent to surgery for your infant, even if the procedure is relatively minor. But what might happen if you choose to forgo treatment? This blog post explains what you should know.

Problems for Infants and Mothers

In some cases, a tongue tie is minor enough that surgery is not required. However, if the condition is causing problems, they are unlikely to go away without professional intervention. For example, tongue tie is known for interfering with breastfeeding. It can lead to slow weight gain and colic in infants. It is also associated with nipple pain and other complications for breastfeeding moms.

Problems Later in Life

The consequences of tongue tie do not go away as a child grows. It can cause speech difficulties, food aversions, dental decay, and disordered breathing. Adults with an untreated tongue tie can be at risk of those same issues.

Tongue tie early in life can even affect the development of the teeth and jaws, causing the need for extensive orthodontic care later on.

Is Tongue Tie Surgery Worth It?

Of course, you do not want your child to undergo any unnecessary medical procedures, so you should consult with a tongue tie expert before you commit to anything. If you find that your child does need surgery, here are some facts that may comfort you:

• If a frenectomy is performed with a soft tissue laser, the procedure is surprisingly comfortable and has a fast recovery time.
• The risk of complications following a frenectomy is quite low.
• Successful tongue tie treatment can prevent the need for expensive and uncomfortable medical and dental treatments in the future.
• Often, babies who undergo a frenectomy experience immediate improvements in breastfeeding, which is good for both them and their mom.

Tongue tie might seem like a little issue, but it can lead to big problems if it remains untreated! A frenectomy might be able to set your child up for a lifetime of benefits.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Garcia-DeMartino has more than 30 years of experience in dentistry. She has completed extensive training in the treatment of tongue tie and the use of soft tissue lasers. If you believe that your infant or child could benefit from a frenectomy, she and our team would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our Phillipsburg office at 908-859-5260.