Cannot pronounce the ‘R’ or stick out your tongue? It could be more serious than you think
By Dr. Sabrinsky Flores – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo —Many Dominicans have lived their whole lives believing that being unable to pronounce the “R,” having a stiff tongue, or being unable to kiss well is simply “their lot.”
Some parents think it is just shyness or lack of practice when their child does not articulate certain words properly. Other adults have faced ridicule or frustration because they cannot speak fluently.
What few know is that behind this may lie a very specific, treatable condition: a short lingual frenulum.
👅 What is a short lingual frenulum?
It is an anatomical alteration in which the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the frenulum) is too short or tight. This prevents free movement of the tongue, affecting key functions such as:
Pronouncing letters (R, L, S, T, D, N).
Sticking the tongue out fully.
Swallowing properly.
Eating and chewing naturally.
Kissing and moving the tongue during intimacy.
Breathing properly, in some cases.
🧒 How does it affect childhood?
Many children are misdiagnosed or simply overlooked.
Warning signs in children:
Difficulty pronouncing words.
They cannot touch the roof of their mouth with their tongue.
The tongue has a heart shape when extended.
Breastfeeding problems in babies.
They grind their teeth or breathe through their mouth.
➡️ If left untreated, these children will grow up with problems with speech, swallowing, tongue posture, and self-esteem.
🧑 What if I am an adult? Can it still be corrected?
Yes. But with an important clarification:cutting the frenulum (frenectomy) is not enough.
An adult who has never used their tongue freely needs neuromuscular retraining. In other words, they must be taught to use a muscle correctly after it has been restricted for years.
At our clinic, we evaluate each case using clinical protocols, photographs, and personalized exercises.
🩺 How is a short frenulum treated?
Functional and anatomical evaluation.
Frenectomy (frenulum surgery) using a laser or scalpel (depending on the case).
Postsurgical myofunctional therapy, with exercises to restore mobility.
Speech therapy follow-up (if there are speech difficulties).
➡️ The goal is not just to release the frenulum, but to enable the tongue to function with complete freedom.
❤️ It is not just a cosmetic issue. It is health.
A short frenulum can affect swallowing, breathing, speaking, kissing, sleeping, and even your body posture. It is not simply a “birth defect.” It is a functional condition with consequences if not treated in time.
“If your child cannot stick out their tongue, act now. If you have never pronounced the ‘R’ properly, you can still improve. This is not a minor problem. It is a life change.”
🏥 Where can you get evaluated in Santo Domingo?
At Sabrinsky Flores Dental Room, we perform clinical frenulum evaluations with advanced technology and professional experience. the best dentist in the Dominican Republic and the highest rated will guide you step by step with diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive follow-up.
Dr. Sabrinsky Flores
Dentist – Santo Domingo
Educational notice: this content provides general information and does not replace an individual dental evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should be determined after a professional assessment.
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