Myths and Facts About Tongue Ties

Tongue ties are a common condition that affects many people. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding this condition that can lead to confusion and misinformation. In this article, we will explore seven common myths and facts about tongue ties.

Myth #1: Tongue ties are rare.

Fact: Tongue ties are not rare. In fact, they are estimated to occur in approximately 4-11% of newborns. While some tongue ties may not cause any issues, others can lead to feeding difficulties, speech delays, and other problems.

Myth #2: Tongue ties are only a problem for breastfeeding.

Fact: While tongue ties can certainly make breastfeeding more difficult for both the infant and mother, they can also cause other issues. For example, tongue ties can lead to speech delays, difficulty swallowing, and even dental problems.

Myth #3: Tongue-tie surgery is always necessary.

Fact: While some cases of tongue ties may require surgery, not all do. In many cases, simple interventions such as exercises or stretches can be enough to improve symptoms and prevent complications. At NYC Tongue Tie, we offer a non-surgical procedure that can release tongue ties in less than 10 minutes.

Myth #4: Tongue ties only affect infants.

Fact: While tongue ties are most commonly diagnosed in infants, they can affect people of all ages. In fact, many adults with tongue ties may not even realize they have the condition until they experience problems with speech or swallowing.

Myth #5: Tongue-tie surgery is painful.

Fact: Tongue-tie surgery is typically a quick and simple procedure that is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients experience little to no pain during or after the procedure, especially with the minimally-invasive method we utilize at NYC Tongue Tie.

Myth #6: Tongue ties always cause visible symptoms.

Fact: While some tongue ties may be visibly noticeable, others may not be. In some cases, a tongue tie may only cause issues with speech or swallowing and may not be immediately apparent or visible in infants or toddlers.

Myth #7: Tongue tie release procedures require downtime for recovery.

Fact: While tongue tie release effectively improves symptoms, it does not always require downtime. The non-surgical technique used by Dr. Levitin at NYC Tongue Tie can be performed under minimal anesthesia and completed in 10 minutes. Patients, including infants, can immediately return to most normal activities, including feeding or eating.

In conclusion, tongue ties are a common condition that can cause various issues in infants, children and adults. While there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding this condition, it is essential to understand the facts in order to make informed treatment decisions. If you suspect that you or your child may have a tongue tie, consult our team at NYC Tongue Tie for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. We offer fast and non-invasive tongue tie release procedures at our facility in New York City.