Tongue Tie Release for Newborn and Adults
Tongue ties can impact daily life in ways that are often overlooked—whether it’s a baby struggling to breastfeed, a child facing speech challenges, or an adult experiencing restricted oral function.
At Supremia Dentistry in Wake Forest, NC, we provide advanced evaluation and treatment options to address tongue tie effectively and comfortably, as part of our comprehensive general dentistry services.
Understanding Tongue Ties
A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the band of tissue (frenulum) under the tongue is abnormally tight or shorter than usual. This limits the tongue’s ability to move freely, which can interfere with breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, eating, clear speech, and proper oral hygiene.
Both infants and adults can be affected by a tongue tie, experiencing various discomfort and functional difficulties that sometimes require coordination with emergency dentistry care when complications arise.
Tongue Ties in Newborns
A tongue tie is more than a minor inconvenience—it can significantly interfere with a newborn’s ability to feed, whether nursing or bottle-feeding. Restricted tongue movement makes latching and sucking difficult, often causing discomfort for both baby and mother.
If left unaddressed, it may contribute to colic, sleep disturbances, and impact overall well-being. Early intervention, such as a tongue tie release, helps support healthy feeding, growth, and development.
Tongue Ties in Adults
Tongue ties are not limited to babies—adults can experience their effects as well. In adults, restricted tongue motion may cause speech difficulties that affect clarity and communication.
Tongue ties can also interfere with effective oral hygiene, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Addressing tongue tie is important for supporting both clear speech and overall oral health.
Common Signs of Tongue Ties
Recognizing the symptoms early can help prevent complications. Common indicators include:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding in infants.
- Limited ability to stick the tongue out or move it side to side.
- Challenges with speech clarity or articulation.
- Difficulty licking, kissing, or playing certain musical instruments.
- Oral discomfort or tension in the jaw and neck.
Benefits of Tongue Tie Treatment
Addressing tongue ties can offer significant improvements, including:
- Enhanced breastfeeding experience for mother and child
- Improved speech development and clarity
- Better oral hygiene and reduced risk of decay
- Greater comfort during everyday activities
Tongue Ties in Wake Forest, NC: The Importance of Early Detection
At Supremia Dentistry, we emphasize the value of early diagnosis. Early intervention, especially in infants and young children, can help prevent future feeding or speech difficulties and support healthy oral development.
Our team uses advanced diagnostic techniques to identify tongue ties accurately and recommend appropriate treatment, offering sedation options when necessary to ensure patient comfort. By addressing the issue promptly, we aim to improve function and prevent long-term complications.
Treatment Options for Tongue Tie
Traditional Frenectomy
A frenectomy involves carefully releasing the restrictive tissue to restore full tongue mobility. This straightforward procedure can typically be performed in our office with minimal discomfort. It is a safe and effective solution for patients of all ages, offering lasting improvement in tongue function.
Laser Tongue Tie Release
Supremia Dentistry offers laser treatment, which provides a precise, minimally invasive solution. This advanced method allows for a quicker, more comfortable recovery compared to traditional techniques. Benefits include:
- minimal bleeding
- faster recovery
- reduced risk of infection due to the laser’s sterilizing properties
What to Expect During the Procedure
Our focus is on patient comfort and safety. The tongue tie release process usually involves:
Step | What to Expect |
1 | Local anesthetic or numbing agent applied (if necessary) |
2 | The frenulum is gently released using advanced techniques |
3 | Clear aftercare instructions provided |
Most treatments are completed within minutes.
Why Choose Supremia Dentistry?
Supremia Dentistry combines clinical expertise, advanced technology, and patient-centered care to provide effective solutions for tongue ties. As a trusted provider in Wake Forest, NC, we are dedicated to helping patients achieve better oral function and overall health.
Our team takes the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and deliver personalized, compassionate treatment at every stage of care.
Trusted Tongue Tie Treatment at Supremia Dentistry
At Supremia Dentistry in Wake Forest, NC, we provide advanced, patient-centered care for tongue ties and a full range of dental services to support your family’s oral health. From tongue tie release to preventive care and laser dentistry, our experienced team is here to help.
Ready to get started? Submit your appointment request online. Trust Supremia Dentistry for personalized, high-quality tongue tie solutions in Wake Forest, NC.
Contact us today to learn more or discuss how we can assist with your dental needs.
FAQs
Is Tongue Tie Treatment Painful?
Our advanced techniques—including laser therapy—are designed to minimize discomfort. Infants typically experience minimal distress, and older patients recover quickly with appropriate care.
When Is Tongue Tie Treatment Recommended?
Not all cases require immediate intervention. However, if tongue tie is affecting feeding, speech, oral hygiene, or quality of life, timely treatment is advised.
Can a tongue tie recur after treatment?
While rare, some cases may experience minor reattachment due to scar tissue. Following aftercare instructions significantly reduces this risk.
How soon will improvements be noticeable?
Many families observe immediate improvements in feeding or speech, while others may see gradual progress as function improves.
Are tongue ties always visible?
Not necessarily. Some cases involve a posterior tongue tie that requires professional assessment to identify.
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Awards & Notable Mentions
Supremia Dentistry has been awarded the Wake Living Reader’s Choice Awards for the 6th consecutive year.
