Ankyloglossia (tongue tie)

What is ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)?

Ankyloglossia, often called tongue-tie, is a common condition that limits the way a child is able to use their tongue. A child who is born with tongue-tie will have a thicker and more rigid frenulum - the cord of tissue under the tongue that connects the tongue to the mouth.

Everyone is born with a frenulum, but in some cases, the tissue may be thicker or more rigid than others.

• In all children, the frenulum helps guide the positioning of their incoming teeth.

• As we age, the tissue is no longer needed, so it thins and recedes. If the tissue does not thin and recede, it can cause problems because it keeps the tongue “tied” to the floor of the mouth.

What are the signs and symptoms of ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)?

The main symptom of tongue-tie is a thick and rigid frenulum that keeps the tongue attached tightly to the floor of the mouth. It can cause problems with speech and swallowing if not corrected.

What are the causes of ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)?

Tongue-tie is a congenital anomaly, meaning your child is born with the condition.