Tongue Tie Dentist in Hamilton
What Is Tongue Tie?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is often detected at birth, but as children grow, typically by age four or five, the symptoms may fade. As a result, some parents may choose not to have the procedure called a frenotomy performed. During a frenotomy, the lingual frenulum is cut, and the procedure takes less than a second, usually without the need for anesthesia. Afterward, the tongue can move more freely.
If left unaddressed, long-term tongue ties can negatively affect breathing and hearing. When the tongue doesn’t rest properly, it can block the airways, leading to sleep apnea or poor sleeping patterns. This can also cause a buildup of mucus and frequent ear infections.
Dental Laser Technology
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy offers several benefits. This three-week program can improve speech, correct poor breathing habits, enhance sleeping patterns and address difficulties with eating and swallowing. It may also help straighten teeth over time.
Surprisingly, a tongue-tie can cause gaps between the bottom teeth and make swallowing difficult. This often leads to food debris remaining between the teeth, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and tooth decay. You swallow up to 1,000 times a day, and when you do not swallow correctly, the constant pressure from the “tongue thrust” can push your teeth out of place. Over time, this can result in an abnormal bite, making it harder to chew and digest food. Additionally, the overuse of certain facial muscles can alter the shape of your cheeks and lips (because of the muscles being overused).
Tongue Tie Diagnosis
It can be difficult to tell if your baby has tongue-tie just by looking under their tongue. However, if you notice any of the following common signs, your baby may be affected:
- Trouble latching
- Increased fussiness
- Colic
These issues can affect your baby’s growth and weight gain. Over time, tongue-tie can also lead to problems with their diet and oral health. Contact us today to book an appointment. We offer same-day frenotomy procedures to help your baby feel more comfortable, making breastfeeding easier for both of you.
Other Services
IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT YOUR TEETH.
IT'S ABOUT YOU TOO.
Let us help you with Invisalign clear aligners in Hamilton, Ontario. Improving patient experience is very important to us as well as keeping every patient well-informed throughout any procedure. Call us today to schedule your next appointment to see if Invisalign treatment is the best option for you.
Sometimes in order to improve your smile, it has nothing to do with fixing your teeth. Gum reshaping Hamilton is a very common cosmetic procedure and sometimes necessary in order to improve your oral health and gum to teeth ratio. Thanks to lasers, the dental team at our Hamilton Mountain Dental Clinic can reshape gums with reduced bleeding and swelling.