At Lotus Dental Associates, located in beautiful Fort Mill, SC, we firmly believe that good oral health is a significant part of overall wellness. As dental professionals, one prevalent condition we encounter is the often-underestimated “tongue tie,” and its link to sleep problems in infants and children. Read on as we illuminate this intriguing connection.
What is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the thin piece of skin under a baby’s tongue (lingual frenulum) restricts tongue movement. This condition may interfere with a baby’s ability to breastfeed effectively and may subsequently impact their eating, speech, and oral development.
Connection Between Tongue Tie and Sleep Issues
Research indicates that tongue ties can exacerbate sleep disturbances in children. How does this happen? An overly tight lingual frenulum can result in mouth-breathing, symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, and poor sleep quality in general. This happens because the tongue’s restricted movement can impede the free flow of air, leading to interrupted sleep.
Detecting a Tongue Tie
As a parent, you might wonder how to identify if your baby has a tongue tie. Some signs to look out for include difficulty breastfeeding, clicking sounds while nursing, or problems gaining weight due to insufficient milk intake. If your child is older, they might manifest speech difficulties or show an inability to fully extend their tongue.
Treating Tongue Ties at Lotus Dental Associates
If you suspect your child may have a tongue tie, our team at Lotus Dental Associates is here to help. Our trained professionals conduct thorough oral evaluations for accurate diagnosis. If necessary, a simple surgical procedure called a frenectomy can be performed to release the tongue tie, resulting in immediate improvement in tongue mobility and often leading to better sleep quality for your child.
Remember, recognizing and addressing a tongue tie early can significantly improve your child’s quality of sleep, overall growth, and development. At Lotus Dental Associates, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care and empowering families in Fort Mill, SC, with the information needed to support their oral health journey.
