Every child deserves a good night’s sleep, but for some, sleep disturbances may be a hidden symptom of a very common oral condition – the tongue tie. At Lotus Dental Associates, we believe in the importance of patient education and proactive health practices. Today, we’ll be shedding light on just how tongue ties can affect your child’s sleep and what you can do about it.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the thin piece of skin under a baby’s tongue (the lingual frenulum) restricts the movement of the tongue. This usually occurs when the frenulum is unusually short, thick, or tight. This condition can affect how the child eats, speaks, and importantly, sleeps.
The Connection Between Tongue Ties and Sleep Problems
Since tongue ties limit the mobility of the tongue, it can lead to functional restrictions that interfere with your child’s ability to sleep soundly. Several critical areas can be affected:
- ‘Mouth Breathing’: If a child with a tongue tie sleeps with their mouth open, they may experience frequent disruptions in their sleep resulting in poor rest. The tongue’s restricted movement causes it to fall back into the throat, obstructing the airway.
- ‘Snoring and Sleep Apnea’: Children with tongue ties are more likely to snore and have a higher risk of developing sleep apnea due to the same reason – the tongue obstructing the airway.
- ‘Inefficient Nursing’: For infants, a tongue tie can make it difficult to create a sufficient seal for breastfeeding, often leading to consumption of excess air. This can cause discomfort and waking during the night.
Taking Action for Your Child’s Sleep Health
If your child experiences any of the above symptoms, it is worth checking whether a tongue tie could be the culprit. At Lotus Dental Associates, located in Fort Mill, SC, we take a comprehensive approach to dental health.
As experienced dental professionals, we routinely check for tongue ties during dental checks. In many cases, the correction of a tongue tie – a simple procedure called a frenectomy – can significantly improve both the quality of sleep and overall quality of life.
If you’re suspecting a tongue tie might be affecting your child’s sleep, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At Lotus Dental Associates, we’re committed to helping all our patients achieve optimal oral health and restful sleep.
