What to Expect During a Pediatric Tongue Tie Evaluation

A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, can affect your child in ways you might not expect—from difficulties with breastfeeding in infancy to speech or dental issues as they grow older. If you suspect your child may have a tongue tie, a pediatric tongue tie specialist in Atlanta can offer the expertise and care needed to assess and address the condition.

Why is a Tongue Tie Evaluation Important?

An evaluation is crucial in identifying how a tongue tie might be impacting your child. Pediatric specialists carefully assess the situation through a thorough medical history review and physical examination. Tongue ties vary widely in severity. Some are mild and may not cause noticeable problems, while others can interfere with functions such as eating, speaking, or oral hygiene. Early detection is key to developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Sometimes, conditions like strep throat can mimic or exacerbate feeding and swallowing issues, so being aware of the top symptoms of strep throat in kids can also help you understand any additional challenges your child might be facing during the evaluation process.

What Happens During the Evaluation?

During a tongue tie evaluation, a few key steps generally take place:

Medical History and Discussion

The evaluation typically begins with a discussion about your child’s symptoms and family history. You’ll likely talk about how your child feeds, speaks, and eats, depending on their age. Infants, for instance, may struggle with latching or have longer nursing periods, while older children might experience speech delays or difficulty chewing food.

Physical Examination

Next, the specialist will examine your child’s mouth, focusing on the frenulum—the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. They’ll look for signs such as tightness, limited tongue mobility, or the frenulum’s thickness. Certain tests, like asking an older child to perform specific tongue movements, might also be conducted.

Assessment Tools

Some evaluations involve tools or checklists to score the severity of the tongue tie. These assessments help determine whether treatment, such as a frenectomy, is necessary or if monitoring is sufficient.

What Comes After the Evaluation?

If the specialist confirms your child has a tongue tie, they will explain treatment options. A common solution is a frenectomy, a quick procedure to release the frenulum. This minimally invasive treatment often leads to immediate improvements in breastfeeding and oral functions. For older children, follow-up care may involve speech therapy or exercises to support oral motor development.

Parents should also monitor other signs that may require attention from a specialist, such as persistent ear infections, breathing difficulties, or swallowing problems. A detailed article on signs your child may need a visit to a pediatric ENT can shed light on when professional care might be essential for these symptoms.

Conclusion

A tongue-tie evaluation provides parents with clarity and a path forward, ensuring their child’s feeding, speaking, and overall oral health are well-supported. Addressing the issue early can prevent further complications, paving the way for your child’s healthy growth and development. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted pediatric specialist.

Marsha Martin