Local Mint Hill Pediatric Dentist Discusses Tongue Ties
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a common health issue for people in the U.S. Studies have estimated between five and ten percent of the U.S. population are affected by this problem. A pediatric dentist in Mint Hill is the first port of call for parents who are concerned their child could be affected by tongue-tie.
What is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie is an issue that carries over from birth and is not the result of any trauma or accident. The problem of tongue-tie occurs when a piece of tissue under the tongue does not separate as it should. The lingual frenulum should separate after birth to allow the tongue to move with maximum flexibility.
Symptoms of Tongue-Tie
The common problem caused by tongue-tie is speech issues, which affect the majority of those with ankyloglossia. There are other issues caused by tongue-tie, including:
- Eating problems
- Restriction of the airways
- Breastfeeding problems
The first symptoms of problems can be seen in infancy when breastfeeding mothers report pain when their infant is feeding. As the child grows, the problems caused by tongue-tie will result in the inability to swallow food and drinks correctly, according to our pediatric dentist in Mint Hill.
How to Fix Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie can be reversed through the use of an almost painless procedure conducted by a local pediatric dentist. The tongue tie procedure can use a laser or surgical instrument to create a small cut in the lingual frenulum to release the tongue from its grasp. The lingual frenulum has little blood-flow or nerve endings, meaning the level of pain is extremely low.
If you are concerned about your infant’s development and want to discuss a tongue tie procedure call our local Mint Hill pediatric dentist today.