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Tongue Tie: Symptoms and Treatment

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a congenital disease that limits the range of motion of the tongue. This happens when the skin strip behind the tongue (lingual frenulum) is too short, limiting the tongue’s ability to move freely. Understanding the symptoms of tongue tie and the treatment options available is critical for parents and individuals impacted by this issue. 

SYMPTOMS: 

1. Difficulty with Breastfeeding: Infants with tongue tie may have difficulty latching onto the breast, causing both the baby and the mother pain and distress.
2. Speech Issues: As children grow, tongue ties can cause speech difficulties, affecting pronunciation and articulation.
3. Oral Health Concerns: Tongue tie may contribute to dental complications such as tooth misalignment and gum issues.
4. Limited Tongue Mobility: Individuals suffering from tongue tie may struggle to stick their tongue out, touch the roof of their mouth, or move it side to side.

TREATMENT: 

1. Frenotomy: The lingual frenulum is sliced to remove the tongue’s restriction during this simple surgical surgery. It is frequently performed on babies, and the recovery time is usually short.
2. Speech Therapy: After frenotomy, speech therapy can help patients improve their tongue’s mobility and speech skills.
3. Orthodontic Intervention: To rectify misalignment caused by tongue tie, orthodontic treatment may be required.

Early detection and intervention are critical for effective tongue tie management. If you suspect a tongue tie in yourself or your child, seek medical attention for a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.