Tongue tie release on the Central Coast

What is a tongue tie?

With a tongue tie, the lingual frenum, which tethers the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is unusually short and may restrict how far the tongue can move.

What problems can a tongue tie cause?

A person with a tongue tie may have difficulty sticking out their tongue. Tongue tie can also affect the way a child eats, speaks and swallows, and can interfere with breastfeeding.

Will a tongue tie go away by itself?

Sometimes the frenum loosens over time and the tongue tie resolves on its own. In other cases a tongue tie persists without causing problems.

How is a tongue tie treated?

If treatment is needed, a tongue tie can be released with a procedure called a frenectomy. It's a short procedure, usually done under local anaesthetic. As with any procedure there are some risks, which we'll explain.

Are frenectomies done elsewhere in the mouth?

Yes. There is also a frenum that attaches the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth. It may be treated, for example where it contributes to a gap between the front teeth.