Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that affects a baby’s ability to move their tongue freely. With this condition, the strip of tissue (lingual frenulum) which connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is too tight, short, or thick, restricting movement.
While some babies experience no difficulties, others may struggle with feeding, speech, or oral development. Early identification is key to ensuring your baby gets the support they need. Here’s what to look for and when to seek medical advice.
What Causes Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie is present at birth and happens when the lingual frenulum fails to separate properly during fetal development. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to have a genetic component, meaning it may run in families.
Feeding-Related Signs of Tongue Tie in Babies
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of tongue tie is difficulty with feeding. The tongue plays a crucial role in latching and sucking,
so restrictions in movement can lead to challenges such as:
- Poor latch – Difficulty staying latched onto the breast or bottle
- Prolonged feeding sessions – Taking longer than usual to nurse or finish a bottle
- Frequent hunger – Not getting enough milk, leading to shorter intervals between feedings
- Clicking sounds while feeding – A sign of difficulty maintaining suction
- Gassiness or colic symptoms – Swallowing too much air due to an improper latch
- Slow weight gain – Inadequate milk transfer can result in poor weight gain
Signs of Tongue Tie in Mothers
If you’re breastfeeding, your baby’s tongue tie may also cause symptoms for you, including:
- Painful nursing – Sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples due to improper latch
- Low milk supply – Inefficient feeding may lead to reduced milk production
- Engorgement or clogged ducts – Poor milk drainage can cause discomfort or mastitis
Oral and Physical Signs of Tongue Tie
Beyond feeding difficulties, tongue tie can often be identified through physical signs, such as:
- Restricted tongue movement – Trouble lifting the tongue, sticking it out, or moving it side to side
- Heart-shaped or notched tongue tip – The tongue may appear indented when sticking out
- Tight or thick frenulum – A visible membrane under the tongue that appears short or tight
- Mouth breathing – Difficulty positioning the tongue properly may lead to mouth breathing
Why Early Identification Matters
While some babies outgrow tongue tie without intervention, others may experience ongoing difficulties. If left untreated, it can affect:
- Feeding efficiency and nutrition
- Oral development and speech
- Dental health, leading to issues like gaps or misalignment
When to See an ENT Specialist
If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie, consult a pediatric ENT specialist for an evaluation. They can assess the degree of restriction and recommend treatment options if necessary.
What Are Treatment Options?
If a tongue tie is causing significant feeding or developmental issues, a simple procedure known as a frenotomy may be recommended. This involves snipping the tight frenulum to improve tongue movement. It is quick, minimally invasive, and typically requires little to no recovery time.
For more severe cases, a frenuloplasty (which involves stitches) may be performed by a specialist.
Speech therapy or lactation support may also be beneficial in some cases.
Tongue Tie Treatment in Savannah & Pooler, GA
Recognizing the signs of tongue tie early can help ensure your baby gets the care they need for successful feeding and development. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat at (912) 355-2335.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort and overall well-being.