Tongue-Tie Assessment & Treatment in Redondo Beach
At South Bay Dental Esthetics, we provide gentle, effective tongue-tie assessments and treatment for children and adults. Dr. Slobodan “Bo” Djordjevic, DDS, and our caring team understand how tongue-tie can affect speech, feeding, breathing, and overall oral health—and we offer precise treatment in a calm, supportive environment.
What Is Tongue-Tie?
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition where the band of tissue under the tongue (lingual frenulum) is too short or tight. This restricts tongue movement, which can interfere with speech, swallowing, breastfeeding in infants, and even jaw development in children.
Signs of Tongue-Tie
Tongue-tie can present differently depending on age:
In Infants:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or latching
- Poor weight gain
- Clicking sounds during feeding
- Prolonged feeding times
In Children & Adults:
- Speech difficulties or delayed speech development
- Difficulty sticking the tongue out or moving it side to side
- Trouble swallowing properly
- Mouth breathing or poor oral posture
- Orthodontic problems linked to improper tongue position
Why Treat Tongue-Tie?
If left untreated, tongue-tie can lead to ongoing oral health and functional issues. Early detection and treatment support better outcomes for both children and adults.
Benefits of treatment include:
- Improved feeding: Helps infants breastfeed more effectively
- Speech development: Supports clearer, more natural speech in children
- Better oral posture: Reduces risk of orthodontic relapse and jaw issues
- Enhanced airway health: Encourages proper breathing patterns
- Long-term wellness: Prevents complications with swallowing, eating, and oral development
Our Approach at South Bay Dental Esthetics
- Comprehensive assessment: We evaluate tongue movement, oral function, and overall health impact
- Gentle treatment: Tongue-tie release (frenectomy) is performed with precision and comfort in mind
- Advanced techniques: Minimally invasive approaches reduce discomfort and speed healing
- Collaboration with specialists: For infants and children, we may coordinate with lactation consultants, pediatricians, or speech therapists
- Supportive environment: Our ErgoSoothe™ massage chairs and patient-first care help families feel at ease
The Tongue-Tie Treatment Process
- Evaluation – A thorough exam to assess tongue function and overall oral health
- Treatment Planning – Recommendations for release (frenectomy) if needed
- Frenectomy Procedure – Quick, precise release of the restrictive tissue under local anesthesia or with gentle sedation when appropriate
- Post-Treatment Guidance – Exercises and follow-up care to ensure proper healing and function
Caring After Tongue-Tie Treatment
- Perform prescribed oral exercises to support healing
- Stick to a soft diet for a few days (for older children and adults)
- Keep the area clean as directed
- Follow up with recommended therapies (such as myofunctional therapy or speech therapy) for best results
Why Redondo Beach Families Trust Us
Families choose South Bay Dental Esthetics because our tongue-tie treatment is described as gentle, precise, and life-changing. Parents often share that their infants feed more easily, while older children and adults notice improvements in speech, comfort, and confidence.
Book Your Tongue-Tie Consultation
If you suspect tongue-tie in yourself or your child, schedule a consultation for tongue-tie assessment and treatment in Redondo Beach with Dr. Bo and the caring team at South Bay Dental Esthetics today.
📍 553 N Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste D, Redondo Beach, CA
📞 (310) 318-5442
Request an Appointment Online →