Baby Tongue Tie: What Parents Need to Know

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a common but often misunderstood condition in babies. If you've been told your baby might have a tongue tie, you're not alone — many parents have never heard of it until it starts affecting feeding, speech, or overall development. In this article, we’ll explain what tongue tie is, how it’s diagnosed, the signs to watch for, and what treatment options are available.

What Is a Tongue Tie?

Tongue tie is a condition present at birth where the lingual frenulum — the small strip of tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth — is too short, tight, or thick. This restricts the tongue’s normal range of motion.

In some babies, tongue tie may not cause any issues. But for others, it can lead to:

  • Difficulty breastfeeding

  • Problems with bottle feeding

  • Poor weight gain

  • Fussiness during feeding

Signs Your Baby Might Have a Tongue Tie

Here are some common signs parents and health professionals may notice:

  • Difficulty latching during breastfeeding

  • Clicking sounds while feeding

  • Long or frequent feeding sessions

  • Baby sliding off the nipple or frequently unlatching

  • Gassiness or reflux-like symptoms

  • A heart-shaped or notched tongue when baby cries

  • Poor weight gain despite frequent feeds

  • Nipple pain, blisters, or mastitis in the mother

It’s important to know that not all tongue ties cause problems — treatment is usually considered only if function is affected.

How Is Tongue Tie Diagnosed?

A proper diagnosis involves both clinical examination and observation of function. Dentists, lactation consultants, speech pathologists, or pediatricians experienced in oral restrictions will:

  • Examine the shape and mobility of the tongue

  • Assess breastfeeding or bottle-feeding techniques

  • Consider the baby’s symptoms and maternal experience

In many cases, the provider may also check for a lip tie (tight tissue between the upper lip and gum), which can also contribute to feeding difficulties.

Treatment Options for Tongue Tie

If the tongue tie is impacting feeding, your healthcare provider may recommend a frenotomy — a simple procedure that releases the tie.

1. Frenotomy (Tongue Tie Release)

  • A quick, low-risk procedure often done without anesthesia in infants

  • The frenulum is snipped or lasered to free up tongue movement

  • Minimal bleeding, often resolves feeding issues immediately or within days

2. Aftercare and Bodywork

After release, some babies benefit from:

  • Stretching exercises to prevent reattachment

  • Craniosacral therapy or chiropractic care to relieve body tension

  • Lactation support to improve latch and milk transfer

What Happens If Tongue Tie Goes Untreated?

If left untreated and symptomatic, a restrictive tongue tie may lead to:

  • Ongoing feeding challenges

  • Speech development delays

  • Dental crowding or palate shape issues

  • Mouth breathing or snoring

  • Difficulties with chewing and swallowing solid food

However, not every tongue tie needs intervention — decisions should be based on function, not just appearance.

Final Thoughts

Tongue tie in babies is treatable and manageable when addressed early. If you're concerned about your baby’s feeding or oral development, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A multi-disciplinary approach — involving a dentist, lactation consultant, and possibly a bodyworker — often leads to the best outcomes.

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