Tongue-Tied

Though you usually hear this as a metaphorical expression, there is an actual medical condition known as Tongue-Tied. The official name is Ankyloglossia and is a birth defect. Dr. Martin Urban of Martin Urban, DDS encourages parents to reach out if something seems amiss with their newborn. It’s very easy to spot right away. Your child will struggle to breastfeed, swallow, and eat. Contact our office in Waltham, MA, right away!

 

What exactly is Tongue-Tied? The frenulum is a small strand of tissue that connects the tip of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. For a tongue-tied baby, their frenulum is either too short or thick. It’s an issue that needs early intervention. Without the means to properly eat, your newborn can’t gain weight.

 

As mentioned, breastfeeding is highly difficult. Your child can’t suck out the milk or swallow it. This requires a functional tongue. Your baby will fail to thrive, refuse to eat, or bond with you. There are physical side effects too. You’ll notice issues with sleeping and digestion.

 

The nursing mother suffers negative effects too. It’s incredibly painful to breastfeed a tongue-tied infant. The nipples receive major damage, becoming severely chapped. They often experience bleeding too. In severe cases, the nipples are distorted or the ducts are blocked.

 

Your Waltham, MA, dentist recommends removing the abnormal tissue from the mouth. It is a quick procedure done with a surgical laser. Dr. Urban or a recommended surgeon can perform this. Resources are available online and in our office.

 

Martin Urban, DDS is located in Waltham, MA. If you notice your newborn struggling to thrive, contact us right away. Visit our website or call 508-425-9640.