What is a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, occurs when the small band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth (called the lingual frenulum) is shorter, thicker, or tighter than usual. This can sometimes limit how freely the tongue moves and can affect oral function in a variety of ways.

A functional approach

Many of the signs often attributed to tongue ties in infants can have different underlying causes, so a careful and collaborative assessment is essential. Working as a team with other health professionals helps determine the best ways to support each baby’s feeding and overall function.

I work collaboratively with international board certified lactation consultants, body workers (osteopaths, chiropractors, physiotherapists) and speech language pathologists—to ensure that patients receive comprehensive, coordinated care that is focused on infants’ oral function.

I primarily work with babies with oral restrictions at West Burlington Dentistry.

Symptoms of a Tongue Tie

Please note, there may be other underlying causes to these symptoms other than a tie.

For infants

  • Shallow during breastfeeding

  • Clicking or smacking sounds while nursing

  • Dribbling milk

  • Poor weight gain

  • Extended feeding times

  • Gassiness and fussiness while feeding

  • Limited ability to lift tongue to the roof of the mouth

  • Difficulty creating an effective seal when feeding

  • Difficulty with solids for older babies

For mothers

  • Nipple pain that persists beyond the first few days of nursing discomfort)

  • Cracked, blistered, or bleeding nipples

  • Shallow latch

  • Poor breast drainage (breasts still feel full after feeds)

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