Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, can be a significant issue for newborns and children, affecting their ability to feed and sometimes impacting speech as they grow. At Haven Medical’s Tongue Tie Clinic, located in Canford Cliffs, Dorset, we offer professional and precise tongue-tie treatment led by Mrs Kate Heathcote, a consultant ENT specialist. Our clinic provides private tongue-tie treatment for babies, children, and adolescents in Bournemouth, Poole, and the South of England.
Dr Heathcote has extensive experience in assessing and treating tongue-tie, ensuring a smooth, efficient process for families seeking care. If you’re searching for a tongue-tie specialist near me, we offer a convenient, private service without the lengthy wait times associated with NHS referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Tongue Tie and Our Treatment
What is tongue-tie?
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the strip of tissue (frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter or tighter than usual. This can restrict the movement of the tongue, potentially causing issues with feeding and, later, speech.
How do I know if my baby has a tongue-tie?
Signs of tongue-tie in newborns include difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, inability to latch properly, and a clicking sound during feeding. Mrs Kate Heathcote provides professional assessments to determine whether your baby is tongue-tied and if treatment is necessary.
Why should tongue-tie be treated?
Untreated tongue-tie can cause problems with feeding, speech, and oral development. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these issues and improve your child’s quality of life.
What happens during a tongue-tie assessment?
Dr. Heathcote will assess your baby or child’s mouth, examining the tongue’s range of motion and the severity of the frenulum restriction. If treatment is needed, she will discuss the next steps and the procedure with you.
What does the treatment involve?
The tongue-tie procedure is straightforward and involves releasing the frenulum to allow for better movement of the tongue. This can usually be performed in a quick and safe procedure at our clinic.
How long does tongue-tie surgery take to heal?
Healing after a tongue-tie release is typically quick. Most babies can return to feeding almost immediately, with full healing occurring within a few days to a week.
Is tongue-tie treatment available for older children?
Yes, in addition to treating babies, we also offer tongue-tie treatment for older children and adolescents, including more complex cases that may have been missed in infancy.
Do you offer private tongue-tie treatment for families outside of Dorset?
Yes, many families travel from across the South of England to access our services. We provide a comfortable, professional setting for those seeking expert care, no matter where they are based.
How much does tongue-tie treatment cost?
The cost of the procedure ranges from £300-£400, depending on the complexity of the case. This includes the initial consultation, assessment, and treatment.
Can I return to the NHS after private tongue-tie treatment?
Yes, following private treatment, you can return to the NHS for further care or follow-up. However, we do provide full aftercare and support if needed.
About Consultant Kate Heathcote
Mrs. Kate Heathcote is an experienced ENT consultant specialising in treating tongue-tie and conditions affecting the throat, voice, and airways. With over 15 years of experience, she leads the Tongue Tie Clinic at Haven Medical, providing expert, consultant-led care for families across Dorset and the South of England.
Her professional expertise ensures that every assessment and procedure is carried out with precision, offering parents peace of mind that their child is in safe hands.
How to Book an Assessment at Haven Medical
If you’re concerned about tongue-tie in babies or wondering whether your child might need treatment, contact us today to book an assessment with Dr. Kate Heathcote. Our private tongue-tie clinic in Canford Cliffs, Dorset, offers flexible appointments and expert care for babies, children, and adolescents.
For more information or to book, visit our website or call our clinic directly via our contact page.