Yes, girls can get tongue-tied, although it's statistically less common than in boys.
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue's range of motion. This restriction is caused by an unusually short, tight, or thick band of tissue (lingual frenulum) that tethers the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth.
While anyone can be born with a tongue-tie, studies have indicated a higher prevalence in males. The exact reasons for this disparity aren't fully understood, but genetic and hormonal factors are suspected to play a role.
Here's a breakdown:
- What is Tongue-Tie? A condition limiting tongue movement.
- Cause: Short or tight lingual frenulum.
- Prevalence: More common in boys than girls.
- Impact on Girls: Can affect feeding, speech, and oral hygiene, just as it does in boys.
It's important to note that regardless of gender, tongue-tie should be addressed if it causes functional problems. Treatment options range from simple exercises to a surgical procedure called a frenotomy or frenuloplasty.
