Tongue-tie is one of the most common defects present in newborn infants. Without timely treatment, it can cause issues like breastfeeding difficulties, delays in speech development, and dental problems. Research is ongoing into the exact causes of tongue-tie. One theory is related to folic acid supplementation during pregnancy. Is there any proven connection between folic acid and tongue-tie? This blog post delves into what you should know.
Why Some Believe There Is a Connection?
Folic acid (a synthetic form of folate, otherwise known as vitamin B9) is a very common ingredient in prenatal vitamins. It is proven to reduce the risk of serious defects, such as neural tube problems like spina bifida and anencephaly. It is also associated with lower chances of cleft lip, cleft palate, miscarriage, and congenital heart defects.
Certainly, folic acid is important! However, some people think that it has at least one downside. Some medical experts believe that supplementation during pregnancy may cause overgrowth of certain tissues, which could lead to an overly thick or short band of tissue between the tongue and the floor of the mouth.
Others believe that, due to a certain gene mutation, some mothers are not able to convert folic acid into its more usable form, known as folate. Therefore, even with supplementation, certain moms may end up with a folate deficiency that leads to birth defects.
Is There Any Truth to the Theories?
Whether or not folic acid supplementation significantly increases the risk of tongue-tie is an ongoing subject of study in the medical community. Right now, the evidence is limited enough that it is not possible to come to any firm conclusions.
What Does It Mean for You?
If you are expecting a baby or in the process of trying to conceive, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for supplementation. Even if there is a chance that folic acid could cause a tongue tie, its benefits far outweigh any potential risks.
Plus, remember that tongue-tie is highly treatable. It can be reversed via a very simple surgical procedure that takes just a few minutes, and this treatment can be performed within mere days of birth. The recovery is fast, and your baby should enjoy normal development and healthy feeding patterns after successful treatment!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Lindsey McElligot is a highly experienced dentist who has studied extensively with leading experts in the field of lip and tongue tie treatment. She is able to treat patients of virtually all ages who have been diagnosed with these conditions. To learn more about her or to request a consultation for your child, contact our team in Lexington, MA, at 781-773-2076.