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Tongue-Tie – Chicago, IL
Understanding the Problem to Solve It
Whether you’re caring for an infant with feeding challenges or a child or teen experiencing speech and sleep problems, tongue-ties can cause difficulties to differnet stages of development. While this condition can be frustrating, Chicago Tongue-Tie Center offers specialized care of patients from newborns through age 15. To better understand this condition and why treatment may be recommended, you'll find helpful information below about tongue-tie treatment at our Chilcago, IL speciality dental office.
Why Choose Chicago Tongue-Tie Center for Tongue-Tie Treatment?
- Team Led by Board-Certified Pediatric Dentists
- Partnered with Pediatricians & Lactation Consultants
- All Frenectomies Performed with LightScalpel Laser
What is a Tongue-Tie?
You’ve likely have heard the term “tongue-tied” before, but a tongue-tie refers to a band of fibrous tissue found beneath the tongue that greatly limits its range of motion. This tissue is called the frenulum, and normally, it is supposed to loosen and lengthen during the last few weeks of gestation. This doesn’t always happen, however, leading to a tongue that is literally pinned down in the mouth.
What are the Signs of a Tongue-Tie?
For infants, the indications of a tongue-tie become very apparent during feeding. Often, the baby will have a lot of difficulty latching and getting a steady flow of milk/formula. In older children, issues like lisps and other speech impediments can develop. A tongue-tie can also lead to snoring/sleep-breathing problems that can cause a child to constantly feel tired throughout the day.
What Should You Do About a Tongue-Tie?
If you suspect that your child is dealing with a tongue-tie, then the best thing you can do is bring them to the Chicago Tongue-Tie Center. We offer in-person consultations, during which we will closely examine a patient's mouth to determine if they are dealing with a tongue(or lip) tie. If they are, we can answer any questions and schedule a quick laser frenectomy to solve the problem.
The Benefits of Treating a Tongue-Tie
It isn’t an understatement to say that fixing a tongue-tie can literally give a patient a lifetime of benefits. This is especially true for infants, who will be able to feed more easily, which will help them hit their developmental milestones more dependably, plus the switch to solid food will be much easier. For older children, removing a tongue-tie immediately leads to increased daily comfort, plus it allows them to speak clearly and easily. Sleep usually improves after treatment as well, which greatly supports all aspects of mental and physical health.