Ask Our Expert - Tongue Tie

November 08, 2009

SEARCH drSpock

my account | sign in

Specialist in pediatric behavior and development.


*	See full bio
*	See all questions answered by Dr. Needlman

Ask Dr. Needlman Tongue Tie

QUESTION


Dear Dr. Needlman, My grandson's frenulum is very tight. His doctor does not seem to want to do anything about it. He was first seen at three months of age and now he is now nineteen months old and it is still just as tight. — Frantic Grammie in Richmond, Vermont

ANSWER	May 10, 2001


Dear Frantic Grammie, The frenulum is a small bit of tissue that runs between the bottom of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. A short frenulum is sometimes called "tongue tie." In the past, it was common for doctors to treat tongue tie by cutting the frenulum, a minor surgical procedure. Nowadays doctors usually leave the frenulum alone, because short frenulums rarely cause any problems. In an extreme case, when the frenulum is short enough to interfere with speech or with eating, then having the surgery makes sense. — by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.

| |
| | |

THIS SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information drSpock.com provides is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your health care professional if you have a specific health concern. Mention or advertisement of any product, service, or brand does not constitute endorsement, guarantee, or recommendation by The Dr. Spock Company. Please read our full Terms of Service.