What You Need to Know About Tongue-Tie Releases for Infants
For new parents, feeding challenges and fussiness can be overwhelming. In many cases, these difficulties may be linked to a condition called tongue-tie, where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or restrictive. A tongue-tie release is a simple and effective procedure that can make a significant difference in your baby’s feeding, breathing, and overall comfort.
What Is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the frenulum (the thin piece of tissue under the tongue) is abnormally short, thick, or tight. This restriction can limit the tongue’s range of motion, causing challenges such as:
Difficulty latching during breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Poor weight gain due to inefficient feeding
Fussiness or frustration during meals
Speech difficulties or delays as the child grows
Potential impacts on jaw development and airway health
How Can a Tongue-Tie Release Help?
A tongue-tie release, also known as a frenectomy, is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that frees the tongue’s movement. This allows the baby to feed more efficiently, reduces discomfort, and supports proper oral and facial development.
Key benefits of the procedure include:
Improved Feeding: Babies can latch better, reducing frustration for both the infant and the parent.
Enhanced Comfort: Relieves tension and discomfort caused by restricted tongue movement.
Support for Development: Encourages natural jaw and airway development, minimizing long-term risks.
What You Need to Know About Tongue-Tie Releases for Infants
For new parents, feeding challenges and fussiness can be overwhelming. In many cases, these difficulties may be linked to a condition called tongue-tie, where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or restrictive. A tongue-tie release is a simple and effective procedure that can make a significant difference in your baby’s feeding, breathing, and overall comfort.
What Is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the frenulum (the thin piece of tissue under the tongue) is abnormally short, thick, or tight. This restriction can limit the tongue’s range of motion, causing challenges such as:
Difficulty latching during breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Poor weight gain due to inefficient feeding
Fussiness or frustration during meals
Speech difficulties or delays as the child grows
Potential impacts on jaw development and airway health
How Can a Tongue-Tie Release Help?
A tongue-tie release, also known as a frenectomy, is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that frees the tongue’s movement. This allows the baby to feed more efficiently, reduces discomfort, and supports proper oral and facial development.
Key benefits of the procedure include:
Improved Feeding: Babies can latch better, reducing frustration for both the infant and the parent.
Enhanced Comfort: Relieves tension and discomfort caused by restricted tongue movement.
Support for Development: Encourages natural jaw and airway development, minimizing long-term risks.
What to Expect During a Tongue-Tie Release
The procedure is simple and typically completed in a few minutes:
Evaluation: The doctor will assess your baby’s tongue mobility and feeding challenges to determine if a release is necessary.
Procedure: Using a laser or surgical tool, the frenulum is gently released to restore full tongue movement.
Recovery: Most babies recover quickly, with noticeable improvements in feeding and comfort within a few days.
Parents are often amazed at how quickly their baby adapts after the procedure. Many report immediate changes in feeding efficiency and reduced fussiness.
Is a Tongue-Tie Release Safe?
Yes! A tongue-tie release is a safe, well-established procedure performed by trained professionals. At Strong Ties Oral Health, we prioritize your baby’s comfort and use state-of-the-art techniques to ensure a smooth experience.
Signs Your Baby May Need a Tongue-Tie Release
Consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice these signs:
Difficulty latching during breastfeeding or prolonged feeding sessions
Clicking noises or leaking milk during feeding
Gassiness or fussiness due to swallowing air
Weight gain challenges despite frequent feeding
A heart-shaped or notched appearance at the tip of the tongue when extended
Early intervention can make a significant difference for both you and your baby, reducing feeding challenges and promoting healthy growth.
How Strong Ties Oral Health Can Help
At Strong Ties Oral Health, we specialize in tongue-tie releases and other airway-focused treatments for infants. Our team understands the unique needs of babies and their families, providing gentle, expert care to improve feeding, breathing, and overall well-being.
Located in Apple Valley, MN, we’re passionate about helping every child thrive. If you suspect your baby may have a tongue-tie, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your baby’s health and development.
