What Is Tongue-Tie?

Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition where the frenulum—the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is too tight or short, limiting the tongue’s movement. This can make it difficult for your child to breastfeed, eat, or speak clearly. Tongue-tie is a common condition that can be treated easily with a procedure called a frenectomy.

How to Recognize Tongue-Tie in Children

Signs of tongue-tie include difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding in infants, delayed speech development, and difficulty with certain sounds, like “r” and “l.” Your child may also have trouble sticking their tongue out or moving it freely. If left untreated, tongue-tie can lead to speech issues and problems with oral hygiene.

Treatment for Tongue-Tie

At Children’s Dental Center, we offer frenectomy procedures to correct tongue-tie. This quick and simple procedure releases the tight frenulum, allowing your child to move their tongue more freely. After treatment, many children experience improvements in feeding, speech, and overall oral function. If you suspect your child has tongue-tie, schedule a consultation to explore treatment options and improve their oral development.