Can a Tongue-Tie Go Away on Its Own?

Navigating your child's health journey can be a maze of questions. And seeing your child struggling to eat, speak, or smile can be stressful. You may be wondering if your child has a tongue-tie and if it’s possible for it to go away on its own. Today, let's address this common question so you can get a grasp of this condition and make an informed decisions about your child's oral health.

Understanding Tongue-Ties

A tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition that occurs when the thin piece of skin under a baby's tongue (the lingual frenulum) is shorter than usual. This can restrict the tongue's movement, making it harder for the child to breastfeed, swallow, speak, and even breathe. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, tongue-tie affects 4-11% of newborns.

Can Tongue-Tie Resolve Itself?

Now, to answer the question, "Can a tongue-tie go away on its own?" In some mild cases of ankyloglossia, the restrictive tongue-tie tissue may naturally stretch or loosen over time as a child grows, allowing more mobility of the tongue. However, this spontaneous improvement is relatively rare and should not be relied upon. 

More commonly, the tongue-tie will persist and even tighten, contributing to major breastfeeding challenges, speech delays, poor oral hygiene, misaligned teeth, and other problems. While every child’s case is unique, often surgical intervention is required to carefully release the obstructing lingual frenulum fibers so the tongue can move freely. 

Leaving the issue unaddressed out of hope it will self-correct could exacerbate difficulties and necessitate more invasive revision procedures later. It's critical to promptly consult with your pediatric dentist, lactation consultant, or a pediatrician to thoroughly assess your child’s specific anatomical situation and risk factors. Together, you can determine the optimal treatment timeline and approach.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of a tongue-tie can prevent potential difficulties related to feeding, speech development, and oral hygiene. If left untreated, a tongue-tie can lead to problems such as malnutrition, speech difficulties, and dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist can help detect and address a tongue-tie early on.

Treatment Options for Tongue-Tie

If your child has a tongue-tie that doesn't resolve on its own, there are treatment options available. The most common is a simple procedure called a frenotomy. During a frenotomy, a pediatric dentist or a pediatrician will cut the frenulum to free the tongue. It's a quick procedure that often results in immediate improvement in feeding and speech.

Schedule a Consultation Today

At Sprouting Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, your child's health and happiness are our top priorities. Dr. Wendy Yang and her team are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for your little ones. If you suspect your child may have a tongue-tie or if you have any other oral health concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. Call us today at (858) 888-9298 to schedule a consultation. We're here to answer your questions and guide you through the process, ensuring your child's oral health is in the best of hands.