Can a Tongue Tie Resolve Naturally? We are here to Bust the Myth

Categories: Tongue Tie

can a tongue tie resolve naturallySanta Cruz, Scotts Valley CA

Has your child been diagnosed with a tongue tie? Perhaps they are exhibiting symptoms of a tongue tie. You might have read an article or seen a video online that claims a tongue tie will resolve naturally and go away on its own. This is not the case! Today on the blog, Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry looks to dispel this myth.

What is a tongue tie and what are the associated risks?

We are born with a strip of tissue that connects from underneath the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This band of tissue is known as the lingual frenum. Sometimes, this frenum is shorter than it should be, restricting the movement of the tongue.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a tongue tie is vital

There is a fairly widespread belief that you can take a wait-and-see approach when it comes to tongue ties. In short, this theory says that the restricted lingual frenum will stretch on its own, eventually lengthening to restore the total range of motion. In truth, a tongue tie might thin somewhat over time, this will do nothing to affect the range of motion.

The consequences of an untreated tongue tie

  • Problems with breastfeeding: An infant who is still nursing may experience issues with latching, getting full or bonding with the mother.
  • Speech development: Young children could experience delays or difficulties in speech, up to and including a speech impediment.
  • Dental problems: Misaligned bite or jaw alignment issues, which may lead to TMJ disorder, both can occur. A child with a tongue tie also may have problems with dental crowding, as a tongue tie can hinder facial development and lead to narrow dental arches or not enough room in the mouth to accommodate all adult teeth.

Treatment for a tongue tie is more convenient than you might think

Dr. Ariana specializes in the detection and treatment of tongue ties. If you suspect your infant or child is living with a tongue tie, she can perform an examination that only takes a few moments and use that information to diagnose whether a tongue tie is present. Releasing the tongue tie is also a fairly simple process, performed with our LightScalpel laser. This procedure is known as a functional frenuloplasty, and severs the tongue tie with a precise dental laser with minimal bleeding or risk of infection.

Tongue tie release in Los Gatos, Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz in California

The longer a person lives with a tongue tie, the more effects that the restricted frenum has on the individual, potentially impacting their nutrition, speech, dental health and more. You do not want your child to live with these issues any longer than they need to, much less still be dealing with the problems caused by a tongue tie into adulthood. This is why prompt diagnosis and treatment are so important. Remember… waiting for a tongue tie to resolve itself on its own will never happen. Instead, have your child’s tongue tie released in a functional frenuloplasty. Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry is here to help. Make an appointment today. Call our office in Scotts Valley at (831) 438-4411 to schedule a consultation today.