Treatments

Tongue-Tie Release

Tongue-Tie Release - Synera Dental Wellness

At Synera Dental Wellness, we understand the significant impact that a restricted tongue, also known as tongue-tie or ankyloglossia, can have on individuals of all ages, from infants to adults. Dr. Jeremy Montrose offers expert diagnosis and gentle tongue-tie release procedures (frenotomy) to improve oral function and overall well-being.

Understanding Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia)

Tongue-tie occurs when the lingual frenulum – the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth – is abnormally short, thick, or tight. This restriction can limit the tongue’s natural range of motion, potentially leading to difficulties with feeding, speech, oral hygiene, and even breathing

Common Signs and Symptoms of Tongue-Tie May Include:

Infants

Difficulty latching during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, poor weight gain, clicking sounds during feeding, excessive gas or reflux, frustration at the breast/bottle, nipple pain for the breastfeeding parent.

Children

Speech difficulties (especially with sounds like "l," "r," "t," "d," "n," "s," "z"), difficulty licking ice cream cones or other foods, gaps between the lower front teeth, mouth breathing.

Adults

Difficulty with certain oral movements, potential impact on sleep-disordered breathing, jaw pain or TMJ issues, poor oral hygiene due to limited tongue mobility.

General

A heart-shaped appearance of the tongue tip when extended, inability to stick the tongue out past the upper lip, difficulty lifting the tongue to the roof of the mouth.

Other

Potential link to digestive issues, difficulty playing wind instruments.

It’s important to note that the severity of tongue-tie can vary, and not everyone with a visible frenulum restriction will experience significant difficulties. A thorough functional assessment by a trained professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Tongue-Tie Release

At Synera Dental Wellness, Dr. Montrose takes a comprehensive and gentle approach to evaluating and managing tongue-tie in patients of all ages. We understand the potential functional implications of a restricted frenulum and focus on:

Detailed Functional Assessment: We carefully evaluate the tongue's range of motion and its impact on various oral functions, such as feeding (in infants), speech, and oral hygiene.

Gentle and Thorough Examination: Dr. Montrose conducts a thorough yet gentle examination of the frenulum's length, thickness, and elasticity, as well as its impact on tongue mobility.

Parent/Patient Education and Support: We believe in empowering individuals and parents with information and providing ongoing support throughout the process. We will discuss our findings clearly, explain treatment options, and answer all your questions.

Collaboration with Other Professionals: We recognize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and often collaborate with lactation consultants, pediatricians, speech-language pathologists, and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcome.

Treatment Options: Tongue-Tie Release (Frenotomy)

If a functionally restrictive tongue-tie is diagnosed and deemed to be contributing to difficulties, Dr. Montrose offers a precise and minimally invasive procedure called a frenotomy to release the restrictive frenulum, allowing for improved tongue mobility.

Our Approach to Frenotomy:

Gentle and Safe Procedure: We prioritize patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure. For infants, this is often a quick in-office procedure with minimal discomfort. For older children and adults, local anesthesia may be used.

Focus on Functional Improvement: Our goal is not just to release the tissue but to optimize tongue function. We will discuss pre- and post-operative care and may recommend exercises to help improve tongue mobility and coordination.

Supportive Aftercare: We provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and ensure optimal outcomes. We are also available to answer any questions or concerns you may have during the healing process.

Why Choose Synera Dental Wellness for Tongue-Tie Release?

Specialized Expertise: Dr. Jeremy Montrose has specific training and a deep understanding of the functional implications of tongue-tie across all age groups.

Holistic Philosophy: We consider the interconnectedness of oral function with overall health and development.

Compassionate Care: We provide a supportive and understanding environment for individuals and families.

Focus on Functional Outcomes: Our goal is to improve tongue mobility and function for better feeding, speech, oral hygiene, and overall well-being.

Collaborative Approach: We work closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

If you suspect you or your child may have a tongue-tie that is causing difficulties, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Montrose at Synera Dental Wellness. We are here to help improve oral function and overall quality of life.

Tongue-Tie Release