Ankyloglossia more commonly referred to as tongue tie is when the bottom of the tongue is attached to the floor of the mouth by an overly short and thick lingual frenulum. The cause of the condition is not known, but genes may play a role since it tends to run in families. Some symptoms include a tongue with limited range of motion, trouble sticking out the tongue past the lower front teeth, or a tongue that appears notched or heart shaped when stuck out. It can also cause aesthetic issues by pulling the gums away from the teeth, causing a gap between the lower front teeth. Ankyloglossia in children can lead to a range of problems, such as difficulties breastfeeding, speech impediments, poor oral hygiene, and embarrassment during childhood, the lingual frenulum may loosen over time resolving the tongue tie. However, in cases that it does not loosen or is severe enough to interfere with daily life, your doctor will work with you to develop a plan of care to correct the issue and prevent any additional complications for your child. A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that can be completed without the use of anesthesia. The doctor uses sterile scissors or a laser to snip the free. The procedure is quick with minimal bleeding or discomfort. A Frenuloplasty is a more extensive procedure that may be recommended if additional repair is needed to the frenulum or if the tissue is too thick for a frenectomy. The Frenuloplasty is performed under general anesthesia and sutures are used. After healing, your child will have the ability to eat and speak normally. If dentition was affected, you can begin the restoration process.