Tongue Clipping
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. An unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue, called the lingual frenulum, connects the bottom of the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth. This condition may cause interference with breastfeeding through infancy, as well as can affect the way a child eats, speaks, and swallows.
A simple surgical procedure called a frenotomy can be performed to correct this condition. During this procedure the provider examines the lingual frenulum and uses sterile succors to snip the frenulum free. The procedure is performed quickly with minimal discomfort and/or bleeding, as there are few nerve endings and/or blood vessels in this area.
Complications of this procedure are rare, but can include bleeding, infection, and/or damage to the tongue or salivary glands. It is also possible to have scarring, or for the frenulum to reattach to the base of the tongue.
Your provider can speak with you about what option is best for your child.