A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter or tighter than normal. This can cause various challenges for children, from infancy into later childhood. Being aware of the signs can help parents identify the condition early and seek appropriate care. In this blog post, the experts from Smile Reef share these common signs to help you identify it for your own child.
Difficulty Breast Feeding
One of the most noticeable signs of a tongue tie in infants is difficulty breastfeeding. Babies with a tongue tie often struggle to latch properly, leading to inadequate milk transfer. This can result in prolonged feeding times, frequent feedings, or the baby appearing frustrated or tired while nursing. Mothers might also experience pain during breastfeeding, or notice that their baby is not gaining weight as expected.
Delayed Speech Development
As your child grows, other signs may become apparent. For example, speech development might be delayed or impaired. A child with a tongue tie may have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, particularly those that require the tongue to touch the roof of the mouth, such as “t,” “d,” “n,” and “l.” This can lead to speech that is unclear or difficult to understand.
Oral Hygiene Issues
Another sign is difficulty with oral hygiene. A child with a tongue tie might have trouble sweeping food debris from their teeth, leading to a higher risk of cavities and oral infections. They might also struggle with other oral functions, such as licking an ice cream cone, playing wind instruments, or even kissing.
Difficulties in Chewing & Swallowing Food
In some cases, a tongue tie can also affect a child’s ability to chew and swallow food properly. This might manifest as picky eating, gagging, or choking on food. Parents might notice that their child prefers softer foods or has a hard time transitioning to solid foods.
Social & Emotional Effects
Beyond the physical challenges, a tongue tie can also impact a child’s social and emotional well-being. Difficulty with speech and eating can lead to frustration, embarrassment, or social anxiety, especially in settings where clear communication or participation in group activities is expected. As children become more aware of their difficulties, they might shy away from interacting with peers or struggle with self-esteem. Addressing a tongue tie early not only alleviates physical symptoms but also supports your child’s confidence and overall quality of life, helping them engage more fully in everyday activities and social interactions.
Pediatric Dentistry
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action, which might include a simple procedure called a frenotomy to release the tongue tie. Early intervention can help prevent the long-term effects of a tongue tie, ensuring your child’s development proceeds smoothly. Contact Smile Reef today if you suspect your child may have tongue tie. At Smile Reef, our certified dentists can take a look to help identify any issues that may be present. Schedule your appointment today with Smile Reef and let us help you answer any questions you may have with your child’s dental hygiene.