“A little bit of this, a little bit of that” is a common Vietnamese saying, emphasizing balance. But when it comes to your baby’s tongue, any imbalance can be a cause for concern. Tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, can affect your little one’s feeding, speech, and oral hygiene. Let’s dive into what you need to know about this condition and its solution, tongue-tie division.
Understanding Tongue-Tie in Infants
Imagine a tiny string tethering your baby’s tongue to the floor of their mouth – that’s essentially what tongue-tie is. This string, called the lingual frenulum, restricts the tongue’s range of motion.
What Causes Tongue-Tie?
While the exact cause remains unclear, genetics seem to play a role. Some experts, like Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan from the National Hospital of Pediatrics in Hanoi, believe that certain genes might contribute to the development of a short or tight frenulum during pregnancy. “It’s like a blueprint passed down through generations, impacting how the mouth forms,” she explains.
Signs and Symptoms of Tongue-Tie
Recognizing the signs early is crucial. Look out for:
- Difficulty breastfeeding: Babies with tongue-tie may struggle to latch properly, leading to painful feedings for mothers and inadequate milk intake for the baby.
- Clicking sound during feeding: A telltale sign of tongue-tie is a clicking sound as the baby tries to maintain suction.
- Poor weight gain: Due to feeding difficulties, babies with tongue-tie might not gain weight as expected.
- Speech difficulties later on: As the child grows, tongue-tie can hinder their ability to pronounce certain sounds like “l,” “r,” “th,” and “t.”
Tongue-Tie Division: A Simple Solution
The good news? Tongue-tie is treatable with a quick and straightforward procedure called tongue-tie division or frenotomy.
How is Tongue-Tie Division Performed?
A doctor, often a pediatrician or pediatric dentist, will examine your baby and, if necessary, recommend a frenotomy. This procedure involves snipping the tight lingual frenulum with sterile scissors. It’s usually done in the doctor’s office and takes just a few minutes.
Baby Tongue-Tie Division Procedure
Recovery after Tongue-Tie Division
Recovery is typically fast. Most babies resume normal feeding immediately after the procedure. Some mild discomfort or fussiness are expected, but this usually subsides quickly.
Benefits of Tongue-Tie Division
Addressing tongue-tie early can make a world of difference for your baby’s well-being.
- Improved breastfeeding: Frenotomy can lead to a more comfortable and efficient breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.
- Enhanced speech development: By freeing the tongue’s movement, the procedure can help prevent potential speech impediments in the future.
- Better oral hygiene: A restricted tongue can make it difficult to clean the mouth properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Tongue-tie division can promote good oral hygiene from a young age.
Tongue-Tie Division in Hanoi: Finding the Right Care
If you suspect your baby might have tongue-tie, consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist in Hanoi. They can assess your baby’s condition and recommend the best course of action. Many hospitals and clinics in the city offer tongue-tie division, including the National Hospital of Pediatrics in Dong Da district and Vinmec International Hospital in Ba Dinh district.
Happy Mother Breastfeeding Baby After Tongue-Tie Division
Ensuring a Smooth Journey for Your Little One
Navigating parenthood in a bustling city like Hanoi can be overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. By staying informed and seeking timely medical care, you can help your little one thrive.
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