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SNORING

TREATMENT

EXPERT CARE FOR INFANT AND CHILDREN'S TONGUE TIES

At Sceville Dentistry, our commitment to comprehensive family care extends to our youngest patients. We understand that challenges with feeding, speech, or development can be a source of significant stress for parents. Recognizing a need for focused care in our community, Dr. Jodi Sceville founded Central Valley Tongue Tie, a specialty practice dedicated to helping families overcome the obstacles presented by tethered oral tissues.


TMJ & JAW PAIN

SOLUTIONS

What is a Tongue Tie and How Does It Affect Children?


A tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the small band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) is too short or tight. This restriction can interfere with the tongue's ability to move freely, leading to a range of potential issues from infancy through childhood.

Signs of a possible tongue tie in infants may include:

  • Trouble latching deeply onto the breast or bottle
  • A shallow or painful latch for the mother
  • Clicking or smacking sounds while feeding
  • Slow weight gain or needing to feed very frequently
  • Symptoms of colic, reflux, or excessive gassiness

In toddlers and older children, an untreated tongue tie can be associated with:

  • Difficulties with speech and articulating certain sounds
  • Picky eating habits, especially with textures that require more chewing
  • Challenges with swallowing
  • Potential impacts on airway development and sleep quality

Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for addressing these concerns and supporting healthy development.

Our Philosophy: Conservative, Collaborative, and Compassionate Care

Dr. Jodi Sceville’s approach to tongue-tie treatment is shaped by her advanced dental training and her personal experience as a mother. She knows how vital it is for parents to feel heard, understood, and supported.

At her specialized practice, the care philosophy is centered on:

  • Thorough and Conservative Diagnosis: Dr. Sceville performs a detailed evaluation of oral function and anatomy. A frenectomy (tongue-tie release) is only recommended when a restriction is clearly impacting a child's health and well-being.
  • A Collaborative Team Approach: Effective treatment often involves more than just a dental procedure. Dr. Sceville works in close partnership with lactation consultants, pediatricians, chiropractors, and physical or occupational therapists to provide integrated, whole-body care.
  • Empowering Parents with Information: Your family will receive clear, unhurried guidance and education. We ensure you have all the information needed to make confident and informed decisions for your child.

Gentle Treatment with Advanced LightScalpel® Laser Technology

When a procedure is necessary, Dr. Sceville uses the LightScalpel® CO₂ laser. This advanced tool provides a gentle and precise treatment with numerous benefits for our smallest patients.

  • Precision: The laser allows for a complete release of the tethered tissue with pinpoint accuracy.
  • Enhanced Comfort: The procedure is exceptionally quick, and a topical anesthetic is used to ensure the child feels minimal discomfort.
  • Optimized Healing: The CO₂ laser minimizes bleeding and promotes a faster, smoother recovery.

Learn More at Central Valley Tongue Tie

To provide the most specialized environment for this type of care, Dr. Sceville sees all tongue-tie patients at her dedicated practice, Central Valley Tongue Tie. If you have concerns about your child’s oral function, feeding, or development, we encourage you to explore this focused resource.

For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation, please visit the Central Valley Tongue Tie website.

Sceville Dental logo

Phone: 209-847-8091

Email: scevilledentistry@gmail.com

Fax: 209-847-3314

Address: 1390 West H Street, Suite D

Oakdale, CA 95361

Our priority is to deliver quality care to informed patients in a comfortable and convenient setting. Please reach out if you have any questions.

CLINIC HOURS


Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday: By Appointment Only

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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