Here at Lotus Dental Associates, we believe in a holistic approach to oral health that goes beyond just tooth care. We service Fort Mill, SC, and dedicate ourselves to providing high-quality dentistry for all your needs. Today, we want to talk about an often overlooked condition: tongue-tie, and how its correction can positively affect the jaw and facial development in kids.
Understanding Tongue Tie
Tongue tie, medically known as ‘ankyloglossia’, is a condition a child could be born with, where the strip of skin connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth (the lingual frenulum), is shorter than usual. This restricts the full range of tongue movement, which can interfere with breastfeeding infants and older children’s speech.
Implications of Tongue Tie on Dental and Facial Development
If left untreated, tongue-tie can create multiple health issues down the line. It can lead to improper jaw development, resulting in crowding of teeth, bite misalignment, and changes in facial structure. As your child grows, these problems can manifest into serious health and self-esteem issues.
Tongue Tie Release: A Beneficial Procedure
Tongue tie release, also known as frenectomy, is a simple procedure that can be carried out by a dentist or oral surgeon here at Lotus Dental Associates. The procedure involves cutting or laser removal of the lingual frenulum, allowing the tongue to move freely.
How Does Tongue Tie Release Impact Jaw and Facial Development?
Correcting tongue tie in early childhood can lead to normal swallowing patterns, ensuring proper jaw growth and alignment. This promotes proper dental arch development, potentially eliminating the need for braces or other dental corrective treatments in the future. Moreover, the child will have an improved facial profile and mandible development due to the regular tongue and jaw movement.
Conclusion
The release of a tongue tie can significantly improve your child’s oral development, overall health, and self-confidence. Regular dental check-ups can help in early detection and treatment. Here at Lotus Dental Associates in Fort Mill, SC, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care for your child’s unique needs, ensuring they grow up with a healthy & happy smile. We’d love to be a part of your child’s bright and healthy future. Don’t let tongue tie draw a line across their smile.
