Overview:

In this module, Dr. Hazelbaker describes the differences between actual tongue-tie and sucking issues that can appear to be tongue-tie due to altered tongue posture. She provides learners with a conceptual framework for such an occurrence; learners will view pictures and videos that help illustrate the differences between a true tie and a faux tie, thereby distinguishing between them in infants.

Learning Objectives:

The learner will be able to:

• Define faux tie.
• Describe normal and abnormal tensional dynamics in the oro-pharyngeal area.
• Differentiate true tie and faux tie.

Topics Covered:

• History of the faux tie concept.
• Faux tie defined.
• Causes of faux tie.
• Comparison of the similarities and differences of faux tie with “posterior tie”.
• Proper differential lactation diagnosis and assessment of faux tie.
• Solutions for resolving faux tie.

Course/Module Details:

Is the prevalence of tongue-tie on the rise, or do we see more cases of “tongue-tie” due to poor differential diagnosis? Sucking problems due to altered tensional dynamics in the oro-pharyngeal area masquerade as tongue-tie and are often mistakenly referred to as "posterior tie." These mistakes, in turn, lead to improper treatment decisions, including unnecessary surgical intervention. In this presentation, Dr. Hazelbaker describes the differences between actual tongue-tie and sucking issues that can appear to be tongue-tie due to tensional dynamic changes that shift tongue posture. A conceptual framework for such an occurrence is outlined and supported with photos and videos. Learners gain insight inthe visual and functional differences between a true tie and a faux tie so they can accurately distinguish between them in infants. This module offers 1.5 L-CERPs.