Not all tongue-ties require treatment, but how do experts determine when a frenectomy is necessary and when it’s not? They use a classification system that includes Class 1, 2, 3, and 4. If you’re wondering whether a frenectomy is necessary for your child, you can assess the risks and benefits of the procedure better by understanding the classifications and what they mean. Read on to learn more about each class of tongue-tie to better understand your child’s diagnosis.
How are Tongue-Ties Diagnosed?
The diagnosis process will likely be how you find out about the class of your child’s tongue-tie. During this appointment, either your little one’s pediatrician or dentist will examine their oral tissues and take some measurements. These will help determine whether treatment is necessary as well as allow you to understand the severity with which your child’s tethered oral tissue is affecting the mobility of their mouth.
Once your child receives a diagnosis, your tongue-tie expert will work with you to help educate you about the effects of their condition and let you know whether a frenectomy is necessary.
What are the 4 Classes of Tongue-Ties?
There are four classes of tongue-ties that are determined based on the measurements of the distance between their tie and the tip of their tongue. They are:
- Class 1: This is a mild case where their tie is 12-16 millimeters from the tip of their tongue.
- Class 2: This is a moderate case where their tie is 8-11 millimeters from the tip of their tongue.
- Class 3: This is a severe case where their tie is 3-7 millimeters from the tip of their tongue.
- Class 4: This is known as “complete,” where the tie is less than 3 millimeters from the tip of their tongue.
When is a Frenectomy Necessary?
Of course, the more severe your child’s tongue-tie is, the more likely a frenectomy will be necessary to restore their oral mobility and function. Usually, healthcare providers won’t recommend treatment if your child isn’t experiencing any symptoms of their tongue-tie. Additionally, in more minor cases (like Class 1 or sometimes even Class 2), as your child develops, they may find ways to work around the issue relatively easily.
If your child has a Class 3 or Class 4 tongue-tie, it’s likely that they’re having difficulty nursing, or they could even develop a sleep-breathing disorder as a result of their condition. In these cases, a frenectomy will be necessary to support their health and development.
With a better understanding of the tongue-tie classification system, you can commit to your child’s frenectomy treatment with greater understanding and confidence in why it’s necessary. If you have any questions or concerns throughout the process, a great healthcare provider will help answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your little one.
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok is a compassionate mom and dentist who has chosen to specialize in the treatment of tongue-ties due to her own child’s experience with the condition. She strives to educate parents about all of their options, providing them with the information necessary for them to make informed decisions for their children that they feel good about. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Cleveland Tongue-Tie Center’s website or call 216-292-2277.