At Savannah Dental, we believe that oral health is about more than just teeth—it’s about how the mouth functions as a whole. One condition that can greatly impact comfort, speech, feeding, and even airway health is a tongue tie. Our team offers gentle, precise tongue tie release procedures to restore proper movement and support long-term wellness. By addressing this condition early, we can help children and adults alike enjoy healthier function and improved quality of life.
What Is A Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (called the frenulum) is too short, thick, or tight. This restricted tissue limits the tongue’s range of motion and can create difficulties with essential functions such as eating, speaking, breathing, and swallowing.
Tongue ties are common in infants and children, but can also affect adults if left untreated. While some tongue ties are mild and cause few problems, others require treatment to ensure proper function and development.
Signs & Symptoms Of A Tongue Tie
The effects of a tongue tie can vary depending on age. Common signs include:
In Infants:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or latching.
- Poor weight gain or frequent feeding sessions.
- Clicking sounds while nursing.
- Gassiness or fussiness after feeding.
In Children:
- Speech delays or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing solid foods.
- Mouth breathing or snoring.
- Orthodontic issues, including narrow jaws or crowded teeth.
In Adults:
- Speech difficulties.
- Trouble with oral hygiene due to limited tongue movement.
- Jaw or neck discomfort.
- Sleep-disordered breathing or airway concerns.
If you or your child is experiencing any of these challenges, a tongue tie evaluation may be the first step toward relief.
How Tongue Tie Release Works
The tongue tie release procedure, also known as a frenectomy, is a simple and effective treatment that frees the restricted tissue under the tongue. At Savannah Dental, we use modern, precise techniques to make the procedure quick, comfortable, and minimally invasive.
During the procedure, the frenulum is gently released to allow the tongue to move freely. For children and infants, this can have an immediate impact on feeding and comfort. For older patients, it supports improved speech, chewing, airway function, and overall quality of life.
The Benefits Of Tongue Tie Release
Treating a tongue tie can lead to a wide range of improvements, including:
- Improved breastfeeding and nutrition for infants.
- Reduced strain and improved comfort during eating and swallowing.
- Enhanced speech development in children.
- Better tongue posture, which supports healthy jaw and airway growth.
- Relief from tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
- Improved sleep quality due to healthier airway function.
By restoring natural tongue mobility, we help patients enjoy healthier function and long-lasting benefits.
Early Intervention Makes A Difference
Tongue ties are best addressed early, especially in infants and children. When treated at a young age, tongue tie release can prevent complications such as speech delays, orthodontic problems, and airway restrictions. However, it’s never too late to benefit from treatment. Adults who undergo tongue tie release often experience improved comfort, speech, and overall wellness.
At Savannah Dental, we emphasize early intervention because it allows us to guide growth and function in the healthiest way possible.
Tongue Tie Release & Airway Dentistry
Because tongue ties affect the tongue’s posture and function, they also play an important role in airway health. A restricted tongue often rests low in the mouth, contributing to mouth breathing, snoring, and even sleep apnea. By releasing the tongue tie, we support proper tongue posture, encourage nasal breathing, and improve overall airway function—key elements of our airway dentistry approach at Savannah Dental.
Advanced Care With A Whole-Health Focus
At Savannah Dental, our doctors are highly trained in airway-focused and functional dentistry, giving us the expertise to understand how tongue ties impact overall health. We use modern, gentle techniques to make the procedure safe and comfortable for patients of all ages.
Most importantly, we take the time to listen to your concerns, explain every step, and provide compassionate care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking help for a newborn, a child, or yourself, you can trust our team to deliver exceptional results with a focus on long-term health and wellness.
Schedule A Tongue Tie Evaluation Today
If you suspect you or your child may have a tongue tie, don’t wait to seek treatment. Early intervention can make all the difference for feeding, speech, airway health, and overall well-being. Contact Savannah Dental in Savannah, GA, today to schedule your consultation and learn how a gentle tongue tie release can restore healthy function and improve quality of life.
