How Can Tongue-Tie Affect My Child?
Tongue-tie is a condition that can keep the tongue from moving freely. It happens when the tissue beneath the tongue is tighter than expected.
Limited tongue movement affects feeding, speaking, and even oral hygiene. Children with tongue-tie may find it harder to move food around while eating or use their tongues to reach different parts of the mouth. A thorough evaluation can help determine if limited tongue movement is contributing to these challenges.
What Are Common Signs of Tongue-Tie?
The symptoms of tongue-tie are not the same for every child. Some concerns may be noticed shortly after birth, while others may become easier to recognize as a child grows and develops.
Common signs may include:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding
- Clicking noises during feeding
- Trouble sticking out the tongue
- Difficulty licking the lips
- Speech concerns
- Food getting trapped around the teeth
- Frustration during meals
If your child shows one or more of these signs, it may be helpful to schedule an evaluation. Early identification can help families better understand what is affecting their child’s oral function.
What Happens During Tongue-Tie Treatment?
When tongue movement is restricted and causing challenges, a frenectomy may be recommended. This procedure releases the tight tissue beneath the tongue so it can move more freely. Many children complete treatment during a short office visit.
At Destination Smiles, we perform frenectomies using Bovie electrocautery technology. This method allows for accurate treatment while helping reduce bleeding during the procedure. Before moving forward, our team reviews your child’s symptoms, discusses any concerns, and develops a treatment plan based on their needs.
What Can Families Expect After a Frenectomy?
Many parents notice positive changes after treatment. As tongue movement improves, children may find it easier to eat, speak, and perform everyday tasks. Some children also have an easier time keeping their mouths clean because they can move their tongues more effectively.
Recovery is usually straightforward. Our team provides detailed instructions to help support healing and keep your child comfortable during the recovery period.
We believe families should feel confident and informed throughout their child’s care. That’s why Destination Smiles works closely with parents from the first evaluation to follow-up visits after treatment.
Call 408-212-0625 today to learn more about tongue-tie treatment near Sunnyvale, CA and how it may help your child enjoy greater comfort and healthy oral development.
