Ankyloglossia & Frenotomy
A tongue tie (also called ankyloglossia) is a remnant of connective tissue between the undersurface of the tongue and the floor of the mouth that can prevent the tongue from functioning properly. This tissue is called a frenum or frenulum.
What is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie (also called ankyloglossia) is a remnant of connective tissue between the undersurface of the tongue and the floor of the mouth that can prevent the tongue from functioning properly. This tissue is called a frenum or frenulum.
To effectively remove milk from a lactating breast or chest, an infant’s tongue needs to be able to freely move up, down, side to side, and in a wavelike motion that pulls milk from the tip of the tongue all the way back to the throat. Older children and adults also require a full range of tongue motion to be able to speak clearly and have good oral hygiene.
A tongue tie can have a front (anterior) portion or a back (posterior) portion, or both. To be diagnosed as having a tongue tie means there is both the anatomy present and some impairment of function. This could present as difficulty nursing, feeding on solid foods, or speech impairment.
What is a Lip Tie?
The inside of the upper lip may also show tissue restriction. Signs of this include the presence of sucking blisters, the infant appearing as though they are pursing their lips while feeding, or parental pain while the infant is latching or feeding. An infant or child may have both a tongue and lip tie.
The term 'tethered oral tissue' refers to any restrictions in the mouth which includes tongue ties, lip ties, and another attachment called buccal ties.
What can you do if you suspect your infant has a tongue tie or lip tie?
A frenotomy is a procedure that involves a small incision or cut of the restrictive tissue. This is done with medical-grade scissors. This procedure is usually performed by a trained and licensed physician. A frenectomy is similar, but involves removing a piece of the tissue using a laser. This procedure is usually performed by a pediatric dentist or other trained specialist. There are benefits to each of these procedures as well as aftercare, including pain control, stretches, exercises, and lactation support.
Not all tongue and lip ties need to be treated with frenotomies/frenectomies. When a tie is suspected, an evaluation should be performed by a trained and certified IBCLC and/or a medical provider with specific training in the evaluation and correction of ties. Additional treatments to support a nursing infant include craniosacral therapy, chiropractic work, or feeding therapy to improve their oral motor function. Please follow up with your healthcare provider for more information.