If you are concerned that tongue tie may be affecting feeding, speech, comfort or oral movement, The Smile Spot can help with a gentle assessment and advice in Dulwich Hill. Our team takes a calm, careful approach, giving families clear information before any treatment is recommended.
Every child is different. Some parents come to us after noticing feeding difficulties, clicking sounds while feeding, trouble latching, prolonged feeds, nipple discomfort, unsettled feeding or concerns raised by a lactation consultant, GP, speech pathologist or maternal health nurse.
During a tongue-tie assessment, we look at how the tongue moves, how restricted the tissue appears to be, and whether that restriction is affecting everyday function. We also take the time to listen to your concerns, explain what we can see and discuss your options in plain English.
A tongue tie does not always need to be released. In many cases, support from other health professionals may be part of the care plan. If a release is recommended, we will explain why, what is involved and what to expect afterwards.
Tongue-tie release may be considered when restricted tongue movement contributes to functional difficulties. These may include feeding challenges in babies, difficulty lifting or extending the tongue, oral hygiene challenges, speech-related concerns or discomfort caused by limited movement.
The goal is not to treat appearance alone. A visible frenulum is common and does not automatically mean treatment is needed. The decision should be based on function, symptoms and a careful clinical assessment.
Our Dulwich Hill dental team works with families who want a considered, practical opinion without pressure. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and understand the benefits, limitations and aftercare involved before making a decision.
Where clinically appropriate, laser technology may be used for soft-tissue procedures. Laser dentistry enables precise treatment and may help provide a more comfortable experience for eligible patients.
At The Smile Spot, we use modern dental technology as part of our patient-focused approach. Our goal is to make treatment as calm, controlled and supportive as possible, especially for young patients and families who may feel nervous about the process.
Before any procedure, we will explain the steps clearly so you know what is happening and why. We also provide aftercare guidance to support healing and help you feel prepared once you leave the clinic. For related soft tissue care, you can also read about gum surgery and laser gum treatment.
Parents often arrive feeling overwhelmed. Feeding struggles can be stressful, especially when there are mixed opinions or conflicting advice online. Our approach is simple: assess carefully, communicate clearly, and recommend treatment only when appropriate.
We may suggest working alongside other health professionals, such as a lactation consultant, speech pathologist, GP or paediatrician, depending on your child’s age and symptoms. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the concern is properly considered, rather than treating tongue-tie in isolation.
For babies, the focus is often on feeding, comfort and milk transfer. For older children, assessment may involve speech, tongue movement, eating, oral hygiene and the way the tongue rests in the mouth. The right pathway depends on the individual child.
Your first visit is designed to be calm and informative. We will discuss your child’s symptoms, relevant health history and any advice you have received from other providers. A gentle oral examination is then completed to assess the tongue, soft tissue and movement.
If tongue tie release is not recommended, we will explain why and suggest suitable next steps. If treatment may help, we will walk you through the procedure, expected healing, aftercare and any follow-up needs.
We understand that parents want honest answers, not rushed decisions. Our team is here to help you feel informed and supported at every stage. You can learn more about our clinic’s values and approach on our About The Smile Spot page.
The Smile Spot is a local Dulwich Hill dental clinic caring for families across the Inner West. Our practice combines experience, modern technology and a warm, approachable style of care. We regularly support children and families, and we understand how important it is to create a calm experience from the first conversation.
Led by Dr Dimitrios Thanos, our team focuses on clear explanations, practical advice and patient-centred dentistry. Whether you are seeking an initial opinion or have already been advised to consider a tongue-tie release, we can help you understand the next steps.
We also make it easy for families to access ongoing care, from routine dental check-ups to broader children’s dental support.
Tongue tie occurs when the band of tissue under the tongue restricts normal movement. It may affect feeding, speech, swallowing, or oral comfort, although not every tongue-tie causes problems.
No. A tongue tie should be assessed based on function, not appearance alone. Some babies and children manage well without treatment, while others may benefit from release if movement is restricted and symptoms are present.
In some babies, tongue tie can make breastfeeding more difficult by limiting tongue movement. This may contribute to latch issues, clicking, prolonged feeds, nipple pain or poor milk transfer. A proper assessment can help determine whether tongue-tie is likely to be part of the problem.
Laser treatment may be suitable in some cases, depending on the child’s age, symptoms and clinical findings. Your dentist will assess the area and explain the most appropriate treatment option.
Aftercare varies depending on the child and the type of release performed. You will be given clear instructions to support healing, comfort and follow-up care. Some families may also continue working with a lactation consultant, speech pathologist or other health provider.
If you are worried about tongue-tie or have noticed feeding, speech, or tongue movement concerns, book an appointment with The Smile Spot in Dulwich Hill. We will assess your child carefully, answer your questions, and explain whether a tongue-tie release may be suitable.
For appointment details, visit our contact page or learn more about our fees and charges.
The Smile Spot – Affordable Family Dentist, providing dental services at Dulwich Hill, Marrickville, Canterbury, Sydenham, Petersham, Lewisham, Summer Hill, Enmore, New Town, Earlwood, Wolli Creek, Bardwell Park, Arncliffe, Kogarah, Rockdale, Banksia, Bexley, Bexley North, Tempe, St. Peters, Erskineville, Sydney, Leichardt, Inner West.
Mon - Tue : 9 am -8 pm
Thu : 9 am -8 pm
Fri - Sat : 9 am -3 pm
Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays
Comprehensive Care Package includes examination, X-rays (as many as required), scale/clean and Fluoride treatment at $240 , For children under the age of 17 years $180.
