Tongue and Lip Tie in Babies: What Parents Need to Know

What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) and lip tie are conditions where the thin piece of tissue (called a frenulum) under the tongue or upper lip is too tight or short. This restriction can interfere with feeding, speech development, and even breathing and jaw development as your child grows.

Common Signs of Tongue or Lip Tie in Babies

As a parent, you may notice:

  • Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding

  • Poor latch or clicking sounds while feeding

  • Prolonged feeding times

  • Gassiness, reflux, or colic-like symptoms

  • Poor weight gain

  • Mum experiencing nipple pain, blocked ducts, or mastitis

In toddlers or older children, tongue or lip tie may cause:

  • Delayed speech or unclear pronunciation

  • Difficulty licking lips or moving the tongue

  • Dental spacing or feeding issues (fussy eating)

  • Mouth breathing or poor oral posture

How Is It Treated?

At Pain-Free Dentist Sydney, we offer gentle scissors release — a safe, fast, and effective procedure performed in the clinic. Unlike laser, scissors release:

  • Is quick and immediate (takes just seconds)

  • Heals naturally with minimal discomfort

  • Avoids burning or charring of tissue

  • Doesn't require general anaesthetic or sedation

We prioritise comfort and calm, using age-appropriate support and clear aftercare instructions. Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible — for both your child and you.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Left untreated, tongue or lip tie can affect:

  • Breastfeeding success

  • Facial and jaw development

  • Airway function

  • Speech clarity

  • Sleep quality (due to poor tongue posture)

Early diagnosis and release can help improve feeding, reduce discomfort, and support proper growth and development — setting your child up for long-term success.

Why Choose Pain-Free Dentist Sydney?

Located at 570 New Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park, we are known for:

  • A calm, gentle, child-friendly approach

  • Extensive experience with infants and children

  • Scissors release only (no lasers used)

  • Collaboration with lactation consultants, speech therapists, and bodyworkers

  • Ongoing care and holistic support post-procedure

We don’t just treat the tie — we treat the whole child.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

  1. Comprehensive assessment of feeding, tongue movement, and oral anatomy

  2. Discussion of your concerns and treatment options

  3. Gentle scissors release performed in-clinic if needed

  4. Clear aftercare instructions, with follow-up advice and referrals as needed

Is Your Baby Struggling to Feed?

You don’t need to wait and wonder. If you suspect a tongue or lip tie, trust your instincts — and come see us for an evaluation.

📞 Call (02) 9558 8988
📍 570 New Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park NSW 2193
🕘 Gentle, same-week appointments available