Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)
Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a medical condition characterized by a restriction in the movement and function of the tongue. This restriction is caused by the anatomy of the tissue located underneath the tongue. Specifically, the frenum—a band of tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—limits the tongue's range of motion when it is unusually short, thick, or tight. As a result, individuals with tongue tie may experience difficulties related to oral function due to the limited mobility of their tongue.
What Is a Lip & Tongue Tie?
A lip tie occurs when tissue attaching the top lip to the gums is too thick or tight and won’t move freely. A tongue tie is when tissue below the tongue is too tight or too short and prevents freedom of movement for the tongue. Both can lead to problems such as:
Difficulty bottle-feeding or breastfeeding
Speech difficulty or delay
Difficulty with eating solid foods
Dental problems, including gaps between teeth
Sleep and breathing difficulties
Signs That Your Child May Require a Lip & Tongue Tie Release
If your baby is experiencing any of the below, an appointment with a dentist in Tysons, VA, will be able to evaluate whether or not a release should be performed:
Struggling to latch while being bottle-fed
Chokes and gags consistently on the nipple/bottle during feedings
Tongue proclamation problems
Speaks slowly or struggles with particular sounds
Increased gas or colic from ingesting air from bottle-feeding
Our Lip & Tongue Tie Release Procedure
At NOVA Pediatric Airway & Myofunctional Therapy, we utilize the latest laser technology to perform a quick, safe, and virtually painless lip & tongue tie release near you. This new method offers a few advantages, including:
Minor discomfort and bleeding
Fast healing when compared to standard methods.
No need for general anesthesia.
The process is completed quickly, usually within a few minutes.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Evaluation: Our pediatric dentist professional will assess your child’s condition and suggest the best treatment.
Laser Release: A soft laser is used to release the trapped tissue with minimal pain.
Aftercare Instructions: We provide post-procedure instructions and stretching exercises to allow for proper healing.
Why Choose NOVA Pediatric Airway & Myofunctional Therapy?
At NOVA Pediatric Airway & Myofunctional Therapy, we believe in the comfort and well-being of your child. Our skilled dentist near you employs a caring and gentle touch to make it a hassle-free experience.
State-of-the-art technology for a secure and precise process
A supportive space for your child to ease fear
Careful individual attention to every patient
Tailored recovery advice after the procedure
Gentle & Effective Care for Your Child’s Oral Health
At NOVA Pediatric Airway & Myofunctional Therapy, we are dedicated to helping children develop healthy oral growth. Should you be looking for a lip & tongue tie release near you, contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment. Allow us to help your child thrive with higher quality, compassionate care.
Does this sound like your child or infant?
Clicking sounds, leaking milk, or poor latch
Difficulty breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or transitioning to solids
Gagging, choking, or slow feeding
Speech concerns as they grow
Tension in the jaw, neck, or mouth
Oral restrictions can affect feeding, speech, and oral function at any age.