Tongue Tie Release

A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the thin piece of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short or tight, restricting tongue movement. This condition can affect infants, children, and adults, impacting everything from breastfeeding and speech development to oral health and daily comfort. While often identified in newborns when feeding difficulties arise, tongue ties can persist into adulthood if left untreated, leading to ongoing challenges with oral function.

At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists, including Dr. David Peto and Dr. Shalom Mintz, provide comprehensive tongue tie evaluations and release procedures. With over 24 years of combined experience in periodontics and oral surgery, our team uses advanced techniques to address tongue ties and restore proper oral function. We understand the concerns parents face when their child struggles with feeding or speech, and we’re here to provide compassionate, effective care in our state-of-the-art facility.

How Does Tongue Tie Release Work?

Tongue tie release, also called a frenectomy or frenotomy, is a minor surgical procedure that addresses the restricted tissue under the tongue. The procedure involves carefully releasing or removing the lingual frenulum to allow greater tongue mobility. Our periodontists perform this treatment using precise surgical techniques designed to minimize discomfort and promote rapid healing.

During the procedure, the area is thoroughly numbed to ensure patient comfort. For infants, the process is typically quick and straightforward since the frenulum contains few nerve endings and blood vessels at that age. For older children and adults, the procedure may be slightly more involved but remains relatively simple. The tissue is carefully released, which immediately improves the tongue’s range of motion. The entire process usually takes just a few minutes, though preparation and post-procedure care extend the appointment time.

Recovery from a tongue tie release is generally smooth. According to the American Dental Association, babies are born with all of their baby teeth already in their jaw, and proper tongue function supports healthy oral development. After the procedure, patients may experience mild soreness for a few days. For infants, breastfeeding can typically resume immediately, often with noticeable improvement. Older patients might need to modify their diet temporarily, sticking to soft foods while the area heals.

What Are the Signs a Tongue Tie Release Is Needed?

Identifying when a tongue tie release is necessary depends on the symptoms and their impact on daily life. In infants, difficulty breastfeeding is often the first red flag. Babies with tongue ties may struggle to latch properly, leading to inadequate milk intake, excessive feeding time, and frustration for both mother and child. You might notice clicking sounds during feeding, frequent breaking of the latch, or poor weight gain.

As children grow, speech difficulties can emerge as a primary concern. Tongue ties can interfere with the pronunciation of certain sounds, particularly those requiring tongue elevation like “t,” “d,” “l,” and “r.” Some children compensate by developing alternative speech patterns, but these workarounds can persist if the underlying restriction isn’t addressed. Speech therapy alone may have limited success if the tongue physically cannot reach the necessary positions.

Beyond infancy and early childhood, tongue ties can cause ongoing issues. Adults with untreated tongue ties may experience difficulty eating certain foods, challenges with oral hygiene since the tongue cannot effectively clean teeth surfaces, and even jaw or neck tension from compensatory movements. Some people develop gaps between their lower front teeth due to the tight frenulum pulling on the gum tissue. If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, a comprehensive evaluation with our periodontists can determine whether tongue tie release would be beneficial.

Does Tongue Tie Release Require Follow-Up Care?

Post-procedure care is straightforward but important for optimal healing. Immediately after the release, some bleeding is normal and typically minimal. For infants, frequent nursing or bottle-feeding helps keep the area clean and promotes healing. Parents should gently lift the tongue during diaper changes for the first week to prevent the tissue from reattaching as it heals.

Stretching exercises are a crucial component of recovery. These simple movements help maintain the newly gained tongue mobility and prevent the frenulum from reconnecting. Our team provides detailed instructions on how to perform these exercises, which typically involve gently lifting the tongue and moving it through its full range of motion several times daily. While they may cause slight discomfort initially, these exercises are essential for long-term success.

Your first follow-up appointment typically occurs within two weeks after the procedure. During this visit, Dr. Peto or Dr. Mintz will examine the healing site, assess tongue mobility, and address any concerns. For patients who underwent periodontal or oral surgery procedures, we typically see patients every three months after surgery for the first year. The second follow-up usually happens around eight to ten weeks post-surgery to ensure complete healing and proper function. After the first year, patients can alternate every three months between our office and their general dentist for routine care.

Why Choose Rockland Dental Specialists for Tongue Tie Release?

Selecting the right practice for tongue tie release ensures the best possible outcome for you or your child. At Rockland Dental Specialists, Dr. David Peto, Dr. Mintz, and our experienced team bring over 24 years of combined experience in periodontics and oral surgery to every procedure. Our periodontists and implant specialists understand the delicate nature of oral tissues and use advanced surgical techniques to provide precise, comfortable treatment. We’re committed to helping patients achieve optimal oral function and health.

Our high-end office is designed with patient comfort in mind, featuring large dental chairs, complimentary Keurig coffee, and in-room entertainment to create a calm, stress-free experience. We offer complimentary insurance verifications and create custom payment plans that cater to each patient’s individual needs. Our gracious and welcoming team provides 24/7 availability to address any concerns that arise during your recovery. Ready to restore proper tongue function and improve quality of life? Contact us online today to schedule your tongue tie evaluation.