Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. It occurs when the lingual frenulum, the thin tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, is too short or attached too close to the tip of the tongue. While tongue tie can affect people of all ages, it’s most often diagnosed in infants.
Recognizing Tongue Tie in Infants
Identifying tongue tie in newborns can be tricky, as some signs might be subtle. However, being aware of the common indicators can help parents seek timely intervention if needed.
Here are some signs of tongue tie in infants:
- Heart-shaped tongue tip: When the baby cries or tries to stick out their tongue, the tip may appear heart-shaped or notched due to the restricted frenulum.
- Difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle: A restricted tongue movement can make it challenging for the infant to latch properly, leading to poor feeding and frustration for both the baby and the parent.
- Clicking sounds during feeding: If the baby has trouble maintaining a good latch, you might hear clicking sounds as they try to suck.
- Poor weight gain: Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding due to tongue tie can result in insufficient milk intake and affect the baby’s growth.
Seeking Professional Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect your baby might have tongue tie, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician or a lactation consultant. They can properly diagnose the condition and discuss the best course of action.
The severity of tongue tie can vary, and not all cases require intervention. In mild cases, the condition might resolve on its own as the baby grows. However, if tongue tie interferes with feeding, speech development, or oral hygiene, a simple procedure called a frenotomy might be recommended.
Frenotomy: A Simple Solution
A frenotomy is a quick and relatively painless procedure that involves clipping the lingual frenulum to release the tongue. It’s usually performed in the doctor’s office with minimal discomfort for the baby.
Infant Frenotomy Procedure
After the procedure, the doctor might recommend some tongue exercises to help stretch the frenulum and prevent reattachment.
Addressing tongue tie early can significantly improve breastfeeding, ensure proper oral development, and prevent potential issues with speech and eating habits later in life.