Tongue Tie FAQs

Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the frenulum (the piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth) is too tight or short. This can cause a range of issues, from difficulty breastfeeding to speech problems. Here are some frequently asked questions about tongue tie that are posed to Dr. Levitin and his team at NYC Tongue Tie.

How Common is Tongue Tie?

It’s estimated that around 4-11% of newborns have some degree of tongue tie. It’s more common in boys than girls, and it may run in families.

What are the Symptoms of Tongue Tie?

The most common symptoms are difficulty breastfeeding, poor weight gain and colic in infants. Older children and adults may experience speech difficulties, trouble swallowing and dental problems.

How is Tongue Tie Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on a physical exam by a healthcare provider. They will look at the tongue and frenulum and assess the range of motion.

How is Tongue Tie Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the tongue-tie and the symptoms it’s causing. In some cases, no treatment is needed. For infants who are having trouble breastfeeding, a simple procedure called a frenotomy can be done to release the frenulum. Older children and adults may need speech therapy or surgery to correct the problem. Dr. Levitin Dr. Levitin has developed a unique, non-surgical approach to treating tongue tie and lip tie using just a small amount of local anesthesia. The treatment is pain-free and only takes about 10 minutes.

Can Tongue Tie Cause Long-term Problems?

If left untreated, tongue tie can cause dental problems, speech difficulties and other issues.

Can Tongue Tie be Prevented?

There’s no surefire way to prevent tongue tie, but some experts recommend breastfeeding as much as possible in the first few weeks of life to encourage proper tongue movement.

What Should I Do if I Suspect My Child Has Tongue Tie?

If you suspect your child has a tongue tie, contact us at NYC Tongue Tie. We can assess your child and recommend appropriate treatment if needed. For more FAQs about tongue tie and treatment from Dr. Levitin, visit our FAQ page or contact us with your specific questions.

Call or book a consultation online with NYC Tongue Tie for the fastest, most pain-free tongue tie treatment available in New York City.