Introduction
Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the frenulum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, causing difficulty in speech, eating, and breastfeeding. When a person undergoes tongue-tie release surgery, there is a possibility that it may reattach. This article will discuss how to tell if tongue tie has reattached.
What is Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie is a condition where the frenulum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, causing difficulty in speech, eating, and breastfeeding. It can be diagnosed in infants and adults. In infants, it can cause difficulty in breastfeeding, resulting in poor weight gain, feeding difficulties, and colic. In adults, it can cause difficulty in speech, eating, and oral hygiene.
Tongue Tie Release Surgery
Tongue tie release surgery, also known as frenectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the release of the frenulum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. The procedure is done to improve speech, eating, and breastfeeding. It is a quick and simple procedure that can be done using a scalpel or laser.
How to Tell If Tongue Tie Has Reattached
After undergoing tongue-tie release surgery, there is a possibility that it may reattach. It is important to know how to tell if tongue tie has reattached. Some signs that tongue tie has reattached include:
1. Difficulty in Speech
If you notice that your speech has become difficult after undergoing tongue-tie release surgery, it may be an indication that the tongue tie has reattached. Difficulty in speech can include difficulty in pronouncing certain words or sounds.
2. Difficulty in Eating
If you experience difficulty in eating after undergoing tongue-tie release surgery, it may be an indication that the tongue tie has reattached. Difficulty in eating can include difficulty in chewing or swallowing food.
3. Pain or Discomfort
If you experience pain or discomfort in your tongue or mouth after undergoing tongue-tie release surgery, it may be an indication that the tongue tie has reattached. Pain or discomfort can include soreness, tenderness, or a burning sensation.
4. Tongue Movement
One of the easiest ways to tell if tongue tie has reattached is by observing tongue movement. If your tongue does not move freely, it may be an indication that the tongue tie has reattached. You may notice that your tongue is not able to move up, down, or side to side as freely as it did before the surgery.
5. Appearance
If you notice that there is a visible frenulum under your tongue after undergoing tongue-tie release surgery, it may be an indication that the tongue tie has reattached. The frenulum may appear thicker or shorter than before the surgery.
What to Do If Tongue Tie Has Reattached
If you suspect that your tongue tie has reattached, it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor or dentist can examine your mouth and tongue to determine if the tongue tie has reattached. If it has, they may recommend a repeat surgery to release the tongue tie.
Conclusion
Tongue tie release surgery is a quick and simple procedure that can improve speech, eating, and breastfeeding. However, there is a possibility that the tongue tie may reattach after the surgery. It is important to know how to tell if tongue tie has reattached and seek medical advice if you suspect that it has.