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Alternative names Return to top
AnkyloglossiaDefinition Return to top
Tongue tie occurs when free movement of the tongue is restricted.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Tongue tie is a condition in which the midline sheath of tissue attached to the base of the tongue (lingual frenum) is attached too far forward on the tongue, causing restriction of tongue motion.
If the lingual frenum extends to the tip of the tongue, a V-shaped notch may be seen in the tip of the tongue. Tongue tie may cause feeding problems, problems with teeth, and also has the potential to affect speech.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Physical examination confirms that the lingual frenum is attached too far forward.
Treatment Return to top
Surgical intervention is seldom necessary. If surgery is deemed necessary, it should be postponed until the child is approximately 9 months old.
Surgery involves cutting of the lingual frenum either in the office (mild cases), or in the operating room (more advanced cases). A surgical reconstruction (z-plasty closure) maybe required to prevent scar tissue formation.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Surgery, if performed, is usually successful.Complications Return to top
The complications are rare, but recurrence of tongue tie, tongue swelling, bleeding, infection, and damage to the ducts of the submandibular salivary glands can occur.Calling your health care provider Return to top
If you are concerned about a possible tongue tie on your child, have your health care provider examine it during a routine well-baby examination. Update Date: 10/27/2003 Updated by: James L. Demetroulakos M.D. F.A.C.S., Department Of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |