Tongue tie is a common problem in kids. Harvard Health reports that around 8% of children below the age of one may have tongue tie problems. If left untreated, it can affect the child’s latching ability, and as they grow, it impacts their speech. We at Best Dentist 4 Kids have the best doctor or dentist for tongue problems in Philadelphia, including tongue tie.
Tongue Tie Can Be Anterior Or Posterior. Let’s Understand The Difference Between The Two!
Anterior tongue tie
Parents can easily notice the anterior tongue tie. The frenulum, situated nearer the tongue’s tip, frequently pulls the tongue downward and restricts its movement. Some of the symptoms of an anterior tongue tie include feeding problems, communication difficulties, and trouble with activities requiring precise tongue movements, such as licking or tooth cleaning.
Posterior tongue tie
The other type, posterior tongue tie, is hard for parents to catch. The frenulum is situated farther back, where it is as restricting but less noticeable. In babies, posterior tongue ties can cause feeding difficulty. Later, they may cause subtle speech or functioning problems.
Both anterior and posterior tongue ties impact the little one similarly. However, because the posterior tongue tie is difficult to detect, it is a little worse than the anterior.
Get in touch with us today if you notice similar symptoms in your child. Our experienced doctor or dentist for tongue problems in Philadelphia can easily detect if it’s a tongue tie problem or some other problem.
Difference at a glance
| Features | Anterior tongue tie | Posterior tongue tie |
| Location and visibility | Frenulum attaches to the front of the tongue making it easily detectable | Frenulum attaches to the back of the tongue or tongue’s base making it difficult to trace. Manipulation or palpation technique is used for detection. |
| Effect on Speech | Difficulty in pronouncing alphabets like “t,” “d,” “n,” etc. | Difficulty in pronouncing rounded sounds and sounds produced in the back of the mouth |
| Impact on Feeding | Affects breastfeeding and swallowing ability of patient | Affect breastfeeding and swallowing, especially latching and milk flow |
How Do Our Dentists Treat Tongue Ties?
Our treatment for tongue tie varies from patient to patient. In minor cases, simple exercises help. However, in major cases, a common procedure called frenotomy is undertaken. Children only experience mild pain during the process since there aren’t many nerve endings in the frenulum.
A frenuloplasty can be required in more complicated instances. Under anesthetic, the frenulum is reshaped or released. Although it takes longer, it can treat severe tongue tie with great results.
Book An Appointment With Us!
At Best Dentist 4 Kids, we offer laser Frenectomy for tongue tie. There is no bleeding and very little discomfort. Our dentists have noticed some infants and kids doze off during the process. The laser speeds up the healing process and reduces the likelihood of relapse. Step early to see a dentist before it’s too late. Our amazing Philadelphia doctor or dentist for tongue problems is just a call away!
