SERVICES
Tongue-Tie
OVERVIEW
Tongue-tie occurs when the frenulum between the tongue and the floor of the mouth extends too far, nearly reaching the tip of the tongue. This anchors the tongue to the floor of the mouth and prevents it from moving as it should. Your child's tongue may be tricky to stick out, move from side to side, or move toward the upper teeth. Some children experience feeding or speech issues as a result. Not all tongue ties are problematic, and your child may only have issues when the tongue cannot extend over the gums or teeth.
SYMPTOMS OF TONGUE-TIE
Problems with tongue-tie can vary depending on a child's age, but common symptoms include:
- Cuts under the tongue
- Difficulty making certain sounds
- Difficulty with speech
- Difficulty with tongue movements
- Gap between teeth
- Gumming or biting of the nipple
- Lip licking
- Struggling with latching to the breast
- Tooth decay
TREATMENT
Treatment is unnecessary for children who don't exhibit tongue-tie symptoms or issues. A child's frenulum might expand as they become older. The stretching might allow the tongue to move naturally and the child to talk clearly. Your doctor might suggest consulting a breastfeeding specialist if your infant has difficulty latching on. Your child could need to undergo surgery if that doesn't help. Our surgeons at KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service can release the tongue tie (frenotomy/frenectomy) under anaesthesia using a scalpel or cautery if your child needs surgery. The tongue can generally move as a result.
Dr Mangray, the founder of KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service, and his associates, Dr Ngobese, Dr Govender and Dr Dube-Zvirikuzhe, have a well-established reputation for caring for children right until late adolescence.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ
033 811 0289 - Mediclinic Pietermaritzburg
033 815 4164 - Eden Gardens Private Hospital
Practice WhatsApp +27 (0)79 126 9419
