Many parents first hear the term “tongue tie” during a newborn feeding appointment or pediatric visit. Others discover it later when speech concerns or dental development issues arise. While it may sound minor, a tongue tie can affect several important functions during infancy and childhood.
For families in Edison and throughout the 08837 area, understanding tongue tie is the first step toward making informed decisions. At Growing Faces Pediatric Dentistry, evaluations focus on how the tongue functions, not just how it looks.
A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the band of tissue under the tongue, called the frenulum, is shorter, thicker, or tighter than normal. This restriction can limit how far the tongue can lift, extend, or move side to side.
The tongue plays a critical role in feeding, swallowing, breathing, and speech. When its movement is restricted, those functions may be affected.
In infants, the most common concern is feeding difficulty. The tongue needs to move freely to create a proper latch during breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
Signs of tongue tie in infants may include:
Parents in Edison, NJ 08837 often seek evaluation when feeding feels consistently challenging despite lactation support.
Early identification can make a significant difference in feeding success and comfort.
As children grow, the effects of tongue tie can shift. Even if feeding improves, restricted tongue mobility may contribute to other concerns.
Possible signs in older children include:
The tongue naturally rests against the roof of the mouth. When mobility is limited, it may sit low in the mouth, which can influence jaw growth over time.
Families looking for pediatric dental care in Edison are often surprised to learn how closely tongue posture connects to facial development.
The tongue helps shape the upper jaw as a child grows. Proper resting posture supports balanced facial development and adequate space for permanent teeth.
When the tongue cannot lift properly:
At Growing Faces Pediatric Dentistry, tongue tie evaluations are part of a broader assessment of airway health and jaw growth for children in the Edison community.
Not necessarily. Some tongue ties are mild and do not significantly affect function. Treatment decisions are based on how the tongue moves and whether symptoms are present.
An evaluation may include:
The goal is to determine whether the restriction is truly impacting function.
If your infant struggles with feeding or your child shows signs of speech challenges, mouth breathing, or early crowding, it may be worth scheduling an evaluation.
Families throughout Edison, NJ 08837 often seek guidance when something feels off, even if it is subtle. Trusting your instincts as a parent is important.
Early evaluation creates more options and can help prevent long-term concerns.
If you suspect your child may have a tongue tie, Growing Faces Pediatric Dentistry is here to help.
Serving families across Edison and the 08837 area, the practice provides thorough evaluations focused on function, growth, and long-term development.
Call 732-375-1000 to schedule an appointment or visit growingfaces.com/contact to request a consultation.
Clarity brings confidence. Support your child’s feeding, speech, and development with comprehensive pediatric dental care right here in Edison, NJ.
Tongue tie is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. It occurs when the frenulum under the tongue develops in a way that restricts movement.
Yes. Tongue tie is relatively common in infants and children, though severity can vary.
Diagnosis involves a functional evaluation of tongue movement and assessment of symptoms such as feeding or speech concerns.
Yes. Restricted tongue movement can interfere with proper latch and milk transfer.
Some mild restrictions may improve with growth, but significant functional limitations typically do not resolve on their own.
In some children, limited tongue mobility can contribute to articulation challenges.
Yes. Improper tongue posture may influence jaw growth and contribute to crowding.
No. Treatment depends on whether the tongue tie is affecting function.
Infants can be evaluated shortly after birth if feeding concerns arise. Older children can be assessed at any time if symptoms are present.
Families in Edison can call 732-375-1000 or visit growingfaces.com/contact to schedule an evaluation at Growing Faces Pediatric Dentistry.