In our previous post, we discussed what tongue ties are and why they’re often missed. Now, let’s explore the symptoms of tongue ties and why specialized care is crucial.
Signs Your Child May Have a Tongue Tie:
- Breastfeeding Difficulties: If you struggled to produce enough milk or your baby had trouble latching, a tongue tie could be the culprit. It’s often not about your body’s ability to produce milk, but your baby’s ability to effectively remove it.
- Speech Issues: Children with tongue ties may have trouble with certain speech sounds, especially those requiring tongue elevation or complex movements.
- Feeding Problems: Difficulty with solid foods, messy eating, or gagging can all be signs of a tongue tie.
- Persistent Speech Therapy: If your child has been in speech therapy for over six months without significant improvement, a tongue tie might be holding them back.
Long-term Effects of Untreated Tongue Ties:
- Poor posture
- Muscle strain
- TMJ issues
- High, narrow palate
- Orthodontic needs
- Sleep issues
- Attention problems
- Neck pain
- Forward neck posture
The Importance of Specialized Care
Not all healthcare providers are equally equipped to diagnose and treat tongue ties. Here’s why specialized care matters:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Specialists look beyond the visible frenulum to assess tongue function and mobility.
- Advanced Treatment: Many tongue tied dentist specialists use CO2 lasers for precise and less painful releases. Specialized speech therapists are trained in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy.
- Holistic Approach: They understand the wide-ranging impacts of tongue ties on overall health and development.
- Post-Treatment Support: Specialists often provide crucial aftercare instructions and exercises to ensure optimal healing and function.
Remember, it’s all about function. A visible frenulum doesn’t always indicate a problematic tongue tie. Conversely, a less visible posterior tie can cause significant issues.
What to Do If You Suspect a Tongue Tie
- Consult a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who is knowledgeable about oral ties.
- Seek a referral to a specialized pediatric tongue tie dentist.
- Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you’re unsure.
At our practice, we’re here to help. If we recommend seeing a tongue tie specialist, it’s because we’ve observed functional issues that may be impacting your child’s speech or feeding abilities. Addressing these structural issues early can significantly improve outcomes in therapy and overall oral health.
Remember, you know your child best. If you’re concerned about a potential tongue tie, don’t hesitate to seek specialized care. Early intervention can make a world of difference in your child’s development and quality of life.