The Hidden Power of the Frenulum: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More

The frenulum is a small, but important, piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. While it is often overlooked, the frenulum can have a significant impact on nursing, speech, feeding, and even oral hygiene.

Tongue-Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More

by Richard Baxter DMD MS

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This article will discuss the anatomy of the frenulum, its function, and the potential consequences of a tight frenulum. We will also provide information on the diagnosis and treatment of frenulum problems.

Anatomy of the Frenulum

The frenulum is a thin, fibrous band of tissue that connects the midline of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. It is located just behind the lower front teeth.

The frenulum is made up of two layers of tissue: a mucosal layer and a muscular layer. The mucosal layer is the outermost layer and is made up of the same type of tissue that lines the rest of the mouth. The muscular layer is the innermost layer and is made up of muscle fibers that run from the tongue to the floor of the mouth.

The frenulum is normally about 1-2 centimeters long. However, it can vary in length from person to person. In some people, the frenulum is so short that it restricts the movement of the tongue. This condition is known as tongue-tie.

Function of the Frenulum

The frenulum has several important functions, including:

• Restricts the movement of the tongue. The frenulum helps to keep the tongue in its proper position in the mouth. This is important for speaking, swallowing, and chewing.
• Protects the teeth. The frenulum helps to protect the lower front teeth from injury. This is important when the tongue is moving back and forth during speech or swallowing.
• Helps to create a seal between the tongue and the palate. The frenulum helps to create a seal between the tongue and the palate, which is necessary for proper swallowing.

Consequences of a Tight Frenulum

A tight frenulum can have a number of negative consequences, including:

• Difficulty breastfeeding. A tight frenulum can make it difficult for a baby to latch onto the breast and suckle. This can lead to problems with weight gain and development.
• Speech problems. A tight frenulum can restrict the movement of the tongue, which can make it difficult to produce certain sounds. This can lead to speech problems, such as lisping or slurring.
• Feeding problems. A tight frenulum can make it difficult to move food around the mouth and swallow. This can lead to feeding problems, such as gagging or choking.
• Oral hygiene problems. A tight frenulum can make it difficult to clean the teeth and gums. This can lead to oral hygiene problems, such as cavities and gum disease.

Diagnosis of a Tight Frenulum

A tight frenulum can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, dentist, or speech therapist. The healthcare professional will examine the frenulum and assess its length and flexibility. They may also ask about the child's symptoms, such as difficulty breastfeeding or speech problems.

Treatment of a Tight Frenulum

The treatment for a tight frenulum is a simple procedure called a frenotomy. A frenotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the frenulum to release its tension. Frenotomy can be performed in a doctor's office or hospital. The procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes and does not require anesthesia.

Most children recover from a frenotomy quickly and without complications. However, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions for care after the procedure. This may include cleaning the wound and avoiding certain foods and activities.

The frenulum is a small, but important, piece of tissue that can have a significant impact on a child's health and development. If you are concerned that your child may have a tight frenulum, talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent problems with breastfeeding, speech, feeding, and oral hygiene.

Tongue-Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More

by Richard Baxter DMD MS

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26168 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	344 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE