Tongue Tie Brisbane

Tongue tie is a condition where the movement of the tongue is restricted due to a short lingual frenulum, the “string” of tissue under the tongue.

The frenulum guide the growth of mouth structures in the developing embryo.  Once we are born, the frenulum is largely unimportant.

Estimates vary, but approximately 2% of babies are affected by tongue tie.  Some mild tongue tie cases resolve spontaneously during childhood as the tissues “loosens” by itself, allowing the tongue to move more freely during speaking and eating.

In some cases, some babies may need a quick surgical procedure, or frenectomy, to release the tongue.  In our clinic, you have the choice of having this procedure as an office procedure using either scalpel, laser or radiofrequency, under topical (spray) or local anaesthestics.

Dr. Wong can discuss the pros and cons with each option.

Symptoms of tongue tie may include:

  • the tongue can’t poke out past the lips
  • the tongue tip can’t touch the roof of the mouth
  • the tongue can’t be moved sideways to the corners of the mouth
  • the tongue tip may look flat or square, instead of pointy when extended
  • the tongue tip may look notched or heart-shaped
  • A baby with tongue-tie may have difficulties breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
  • The front teeth in the lower jaw may have a gap between them

We classify the degree of tongue tie by measuring the distance between the insertion of frenulum and the tip of the tongue while the patient is touching the palate with the mouth open.

  • Clinically acceptable > 16 mm
  • 1st class or light anchyloglossia 12-16 mm
  • 2nd class or medium: 8-11 mm
  • 3rd class or severe 3-7 mm
  • 4th class or complete anchyloglossia < 3 mm

If you are interested in this procedure for your baby, please call our friendly reception staff to make an appointment with Dr Wong.

Fee Estimate:  Initial consultation required. Medicare rebate applies. 

Procedure: Approximately $400

Tongue Tie Brisbane
Tongue Tie Brisbane