What’s the Best Age to Treat a Tongue Tie?

Like most new parents, if you are told your child has a tongue tie, you understandably have lots of questions. What is it? How is it diagnosed? Most importantly, what can be done and when should you do it?

The good news is that relatively simple treatments are available, often through your dentist, who is an expert at treating oral conditions. But you may not choose to treat your child’s tongue tie right away, or at all. We want to help you understand the pros and cons of treating at different ages.

Understanding a Tongue Tie

A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a congenital condition, meaning your child is born with it. With a tongue tie, the band of tissue that under the tongue that connects it to the floor of the mouth is not formed correctly. It can be shorter or thicker than is typical. As the name implies, this band of tissue “ties” the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, restricting the tongue’s mobility, potentially causing issues with breastfeeding, speech, and other oral functions.

A tongue tie can range from mild to severe, depending on how much the tongue’s movement is restricted. Its exact cause remains unknown, but it’s believed to be hereditary. Doctors can typically observe a tongue tie upon physical exam.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for a tongue tie is a simple surgical procedure called a frenectomy. During this procedure, the tight frenulum is cut to free the tongue. There are two main methods:

• Traditional Frenectomy: Using a scalpel, the surgeon cuts the frenulum. This method might require stitches.
• Laser Frenectomy: Here, a laser is used to cut the frenulum. It has the advantage of less bleeding and often doesn’t require stitches. In fact, performing this procedure using a laser (as we do in our office) is quick, with little to no pain.

Both procedures are relatively quick, often taking only a few minutes, and can be performed with local anesthesia.

Pros and Cons of Treating at Different Ages

Some medical professionals will encourage parents to treat a tongue tie at a very young age, while others will advise parents to wait to see whether it causes problems or resolves itself.

Your child’s anatomy is unique, so it is important to listen to your provider. However, here are some of the considerations to take into account when making this decision.

Infancy

Advantages: Addressing a tongue tie during infancy can potentially prevent or help remedy breastfeeding issues, aiding in proper nutrition and bonding between the mother and child. Furthermore, early treatment might prevent potential speech problems and other complications later in life.

Drawbacks: In some cases, infants naturally outgrow the condition, making the procedure unnecessary in hindsight. Parents may be nervous about their young infant undergoing a medical procedure.

Childhood

Advantages: As children begin to speak and eat solid foods, the limitations of a tongue tie can become more pronounced. Treating at this age can alleviate any speech difficulties and help in better oral hygiene.

Drawbacks: Children are more aware of medical procedures, potentially causing anxiety and fear. Recovery might also take slightly longer compared to infants, particularly when it comes to a traditional (non-laser) approach.

Adulthood

Advantages: Adults can make an informed decision about treatment and adequately express their feelings and concerns.

Drawbacks: If untreated until adulthood, the individual might have already adapted to the condition, making the post-procedure adjustment period longer. Some adults might also face heightened anxiety over the surgery, and recovery can be longer.

Making an Informed Decision

Tongue ties, while common, pose a unique challenge for every individual. Determining the best age for treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Consideration should also be given to the individual’s or parent’s comfort level, potential complications, and the severity of the condition.

If you suspect a tongue tie, or one has already been confirmed in your child, consult with a medical professional who can offer guidance based on the specific situation and the potential risks and benefits at each age.

Considering treatment for a tongue tie? Contact us today, and we can help you to evaluate the best course for your child.