Medical Health Encyclopedia

Tongue tie

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Oropharynx

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Tongue tie

Definition:

Tongue tie occurs when free movement of the tongue is restricted.

Alternative Names:
Ankyloglossia

Text Continues Below

---

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tongue tie is a condition in which the midline sheath of tissue attached to the base of the tongue (lingual frenum) is attached too far forward on the tongue, causing restriction of tongue motion.

If the lingual frenum extends to the tip of the tongue, a V-shaped notch may be visible. Tongue tie may cause feeding problems, tooth problems, and speech problems.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.