Tabby Tongue Assessment Tool

Tabby Tongue Assessment Tool

 

A trusted evaluation tool for parents and healthcare providers

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At Peninsula Tongue Tie, we use the Tabby Tongue Assessment Tool to help parents, providers, and our care team detect tongue ties efficiently and accurately. This tool allows us to evaluate the function and mobility of the tongue across all age groups — from newborns to adults — and guide each family toward the best care options.

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What Is the Tabby Tongue Assessment?

 

The Tabby Tongue Assessment is a specialized screening tool designed to identify signs of ankyloglossia (tongue tie). This condition occurs when the lingual frenulum — the thin band of tissue under the tongue — is too tight or short, restricting tongue movement. Tongue ties can impact breastfeeding, speech development, eating habits, and oral hygiene if left untreated.

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How the Assessment Works

 

Our process includes a series of observations and functional evaluations tailored to the patient's age. During a Tabby assessment, we may perform:

• Visual Examination: We look for physical signs of restriction, such as a short or tight frenulum, notching at the tip of the tongue, or limited lift.

• Functional Movement Tests: We assess how well the tongue can move — lifting, extending, and lateral movements are key markers.

• Feeding & Speech Observations:

  • For infants, we observe breast or bottle feeding to evaluate latch, suction, and fatigue.

  • For older children and adults, we assess speech clarity and swallowing function.

These steps help us understand not just what the tongue looks like, but how well it works — a crucial distinction in diagnosing functional ties.

Why Early Assessment Matters

 

Identifying a tongue tie early can prevent long-term issues and help patients thrive. The Tabby Tongue Assessment helps us:

• ✅ Improve Feeding: Proper tongue function can reduce frustration and pain during breastfeeding, improving outcomes for both baby and parent.

• ✅ Support Clear Speech: Early treatment reduces the risk of speech delays or articulation problems.

• ✅ Promote Long-Term Oral Health: A mobile tongue aids in cleaning the mouth, helping prevent cavities, gum issues, and orthodontic problems later on.

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Meet Our Experts

Our assessments and treatments are led by a skilled, compassionate team:
Dr. Kenny Tse, Dr. Laura Lim, and Dr. Liza Heron — each with advanced training in tongue tie diagnosis, laser treatment, and patient-centered care. We collaborate closely with lactation consultants, speech therapists, and myofunctional specialists to ensure that every patient receives comprehensive, age-appropriate care.

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Schedule an Assessment

If you suspect your child — or your patient — may have a tongue tie, we’re here to help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward improved function, comfort, and quality of life.

📞 Call us at 650-871-5437
📩 Or visit our Contact Page to request an appointment

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