Tongue Tie- Causes, Symptoms, Treatment in Thrissur

Welcome to Dr. Vidya Ramdas' ENT Clinic in Thrissur

Are you or your child experiencing difficulty with speech or feeding due to tongue tie? Dr. Vidya Ramdas, a skilled ENT specialist in Thrissur, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for tongue tie. With extensive experience and a compassionate approach, Dr. Ramdas is committed to offering personalized care tailored to your specific needs.

Understanding Tongue Tie

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where the strip of tissue (lingual frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual. This can restrict the tongue's movement, leading to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and oral hygiene.

Symptoms of Tongue Tie

Common symptoms of tongue tie include:

- Difficulty lifting the tongue to the upper teeth or moving it from side to side

- Trouble sticking the tongue out past the lower front teeth

- A tongue that appears notched or heart-shaped when stuck out

- Feeding problems in infants, such as trouble latching or slow weight gain

- Speech difficulties, such as unclear pronunciation of certain sounds

- Difficulty with oral hygiene, leading to dental issues

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#### Causes of Tongue Tie

Tongue tie is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic factors that affect the development of the lingual frenulum.

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#### Treatment Options

Dr. Vidya Ramdas offers a range of treatments for tongue tie, tailored to the severity of the condition and the patient's specific needs:

- Observation: In mild cases, monitoring the condition may be sufficient, especially if it does not interfere significantly with feeding or speech.

- Frenotomy: A simple surgical procedure to release the tongue by cutting the lingual frenulum. This is often performed in infants and young children.

- Frenuloplasty: A more extensive surgical procedure that involves the release of the frenulum and may require stitches. This is typically done for older children and adults.

- Speech therapy: For those with speech difficulties, working with a speech therapist can help improve articulation and communication skills.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is tongue tie diagnosed?

- Diagnosis involves a physical examination of the mouth, particularly the movement and appearance of the tongue. In some cases, a lactation consultant or speech therapist may also be involved.

2. Is the procedure to correct tongue tie painful?

- In infants, a frenotomy is usually quick and causes minimal discomfort. Older children and adults may experience some discomfort, but it is generally well-tolerated with local anesthesia.

3. What are the risks of not treating tongue tie?

- Untreated tongue tie can lead to ongoing feeding difficulties, speech problems, and dental issues due to improper tongue movement.

4. Can tongue tie affect breastfeeding?

- Yes, tongue tie can make it difficult for infants to latch properly, leading to inadequate milk intake and potential weight gain issues.

5. When should I seek treatment for tongue tie?

- If tongue tie is causing significant feeding difficulties, speech problems, or oral hygiene issues, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist like Dr. Vidya Ramdas.

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#### Why Consult Dr. Vidya Ramdas?

Expertise and Experience: Dr. Vidya Ramdas is a highly skilled ENT specialist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating tongue tie.

Personalized Care: Each patient receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their specific symptoms and needs.

Advanced Techniques: Utilizing the latest medical advancements and surgical techniques, Dr. Ramdas ensures the best possible outcomes.

Patient-Centered Approach: Dr. Ramdas prioritizes patient comfort and education, ensuring that you are fully informed and at ease throughout your treatment.

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### Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t let tongue tie affect your or your child’s quality of life. Contact Dr. Vidya Ramdas' ENT Clinic in Thrissur to schedule your consultation and start your journey towards better oral health and function.

Dr. Vidya Ramdas - Expert ENT Care You Can Trust