What is tongue-tie and how is it diagnosed?

What is tongue-tie and how is it diagnosed?

Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenulum) is too short or tight, causing difficulty with certain tongue movements. 

Tongue-tie can affect people of any age and can occur in both males and females.

Tongue-tie can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional, such as a dentist or speech-language pathologist, during a physical examination. 

The healthcare professional will assess the tongue's range of motion and the appearance of the lingual frenulum. 

They may also ask about any symptoms or difficulties that the person is experiencing, such as difficulty breastfeeding or speaking clearly.

In some cases, additional tests, such as a tongue function assessment or imaging studies, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the severity of the tongue-tie.

If you think you or a loved one may have tongue-tie, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and treatment recommendations. 

Treatment options may include observation, a surgical procedure called a frenotomy, speech therapy, or other approaches depending on the specific symptoms and needs of the individual.