Tongue Tie

What does it mean to be Tongue-Tied?

Being Tongue-Tied (TT) or having a Lingual Tethered Oral Tissue (TOT) is a condition at birth where a child’s skin under the tongue (also known as the Lingual Frenum) holds the tongue too tight to the bottom of the mouth. The proper medical term for this is Ankyloglossia. This condition causes reduced mobility of the tongue, can create speech problems and may interfere with breastfeeding.

The same can happen with the little piece of skin that attaches the upper lip to the gums (the Labial Frenum). This is called Labial Tethered Oral Tissue (TOT). This can also cause difficulty in breastfeeding and, in adulthood, it can cause the two front teeth to have a gap between them.

The procedure to fix these issues is called a Frenectomy, either Lingual or Labial. At Hapy Bear Surgery Center this procedure is usually done without General Anesthesia on infants. The infant usually cries and fusses during and after the procedure, however, it only takes about 3-5 minutes from start to finish. Mom can breastfeed immediately following the procedure to soothe the baby… skin to skin is optimal.

If needed, a Lactation Consultant will assist with any breastfeeding questions or difficulties immediately after the procedure is completed.

Post-Surgery Instructions:

Another technique that can relax your infant making the muscles less tense is Infant Massage, back rubbing, and relaxed cuddling. It is highly recommended that you follow up with your Lactation Consultant for successful breastfeeding.
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Should you feel it necessary, you can give your child age & weight appropriate Baby Tylenol using the dropper in the manufactures packaging.