Ankyloglossia: How Dentists Approach Tongue-Tie in Children and Adults

Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie, is a condition where the frenulum, the small band of tissue under the tongue, is shorter than usual, restricting the movement of the tongue. This can lead to a range of issues, particularly affecting speech, feeding, and even oral hygiene. While tongue-tie is often detected in infancy, many people, including adults, may not realize that this condition is impacting their daily lives. Ankyloglossia treatment is crucial for alleviating these challenges, and the procedure to correct it is typically simple and effective. In this article, we’ll explore what ankyloglossia is, how dentists approach its treatment, and the benefits of early intervention for both children and adults.

What is Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie)?

Ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, occurs when the frenulum that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually tight or short. This restricts the movement of the tongue, making it difficult to perform normal actions such as moving the tongue freely or lifting it to the roof of the mouth.

In infants, tongue-tie can interfere with breastfeeding because the restricted tongue movement makes it harder for them to latch onto the breast properly. In older children and adults, ankyloglossia can cause speech difficulties, trouble with eating, and even lead to problems with oral hygiene.

Signs of Ankyloglossia in Children and Adults

The symptoms of ankyloglossia vary depending on the severity of the condition. In infants, signs include:

• Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
• Poor weight gain due to inefficient feeding
• Clicking sounds while nursing
• Sore nipples for breastfeeding mothers

In children and adults, signs of ankyloglossia include:

• Difficulty pronouncing certain words or sounds (like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “s”)
• Speech impediments or unclear speech
• Difficulty sticking the tongue out past the teeth or moving it from side to side
• Problems with eating certain foods
• Poor oral hygiene, as the tongue struggles to clean the roof of the mouth and teeth

If any of these issues are present, it may be time to consult a dentist or an oral specialist who can assess the situation and recommend treatment options.

How Dentists Approach Ankyloglossia Treatment

For many individuals, ankyloglossia treatment is a straightforward procedure. In children, especially newborns, treatment can often involve a relatively simple frenectomy. For adults or older children with more developed oral structures, the treatment may require a slightly more involved approach. Below is an overview of how dentists approach treatment for tongue-tie:

1. Diagnosis and Assessment

A dentist will first evaluate the patient’s symptoms and visually inspect the frenulum. In children, the diagnosis is often made during infancy, while in adults, the issue may be identified during a routine dental visit or when the patient seeks treatment for related issues, such as speech problems.

The dentist will check for signs of restricted tongue movement and may use a scale to determine the severity of the condition. In some cases, a speech therapist may also be involved to assess how the tongue restriction is impacting speech development.

2. Frenectomy: A Simple and Effective Solution

A frenectomy is the most common treatment for ankyloglossia. This procedure involves the removal or modification of the frenulum to release the tongue’s full range of motion.

• For infants and young children, a frenectomy is typically performed using a simple scalpel or laser. This can often be done with minimal local anaesthesia, and the procedure usually takes only a few minutes. In most cases, the child will recover quickly, and breastfeeding can resume almost immediately, with improved latch and feeding efficiency.
• For older children and adults, the procedure may be slightly more involved, especially if there are more developed oral tissues. However, the procedure remains relatively simple and can be done with local anaesthesia to numb the area. The dentist may use a laser or scalpel, depending on the clinic’s resources and the patient’s needs. Post-procedure care typically involves gentle stretches to ensure the tongue’s mobility continues to improve.

3. Post-Procedure Care

After a frenectomy, it’s important to follow the dentist’s instructions for recovery to ensure optimal results. Patients are typically advised to:

• Perform tongue exercises or stretches to help the tongue regain full mobility.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any infection or complications at the treatment site.
• Eat soft foods for a few days if there is any tenderness in the area.
• Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as swelling or unusual pain.

In infants, breastfeeding mothers are often advised to help the baby latch more effectively to promote proper feeding.

4. Speech Therapy and Follow-Up Care

For children and adults experiencing speech issues due to ankyloglossia, speech improvement can be an important part of the treatment plan. A speech therapist may work with the patient after the frenectomy to help re-train the tongue and mouth muscles to form sounds correctly.

Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring the recovery process, ensuring that the tongue has full mobility, and addressing any potential complications. This may include additional adjustments or exercises to promote flexibility and strength in the tongue.

Benefits of Early Intervention

For children, the earlier ankyloglossia is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome. Early treatment can significantly improve speech development, prevent feeding difficulties, and enhance oral health. Ankyloglossia treatment in infancy often results in quicker recovery and fewer complications, as the tissues are softer and more malleable.

For adults who have lived with tongue-tie for years, treatment can still bring substantial benefits, such as improved speech clarity, better oral hygiene, and less strain when eating. However, adults may require more extensive recovery time, and additional therapies, such as speech therapy, may be necessary for optimal results.

Why It’s Important to Address Ankyloglossia

Ignoring ankyloglossia can lead to various long-term issues, including:

• Speech difficulties, as the tongue’s limited range of motion makes certain sounds harder to pronounce.
• Feeding problems in infants, which can affect nutritional intake and overall health.
• Oral hygiene issues, as a restricted tongue may have difficulty cleaning the mouth effectively, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Jaw pain or TMJ disorders, as the restricted tongue may cause strain on the jaw muscles during normal activities like eating or speaking.

Correcting tongue-tie early on can avoid these complications, ensuring better health and quality of life for children and adults alike.

Ankyloglossia treatment plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for both children and adults with tongue-tie. Whether through a simple frenectomy or through post-treatment therapies like speech improvement, addressing the condition can alleviate a range of challenges, from feeding difficulties to speech impediments and poor oral hygiene. If you suspect you or your child may have tongue-tie, it’s important to consult with a dentist who can offer guidance and treatment options. Early intervention can lead to a lifetime of improved oral health, speech, and overall well-being.