Is your baby’s feeding time filled with frustration and fussiness instead of bonding and contentment? You’re not alone—many new parents face the mystery of tongue tie without even knowing it. Don’t worry; this guide will help you identify common signs of tongue tie in newborns and offer solutions to ensure your little one’s comfort and well-being.
Tongue tie, medically referred to as ankyloglossia, is a condition that limits how much the tongue can move due to a tight or short lingual frenulum. This is the thin tissue underneath the tongue linking it to the mouth’s floor. It’s often present from birth, yet many parents find it challenging to identify. We aim to clarify this by detailing the common signs of tongue tie in newborns here, comparing it to normal tongue movement, and guiding you on steps to take if you suspect your child might be affected.
1. Baby Has Trouble Latching During Breastfeeding
One of the first symptoms of tongue tie in babies is difficulty with breastfeeding. You may notice:
- Your baby might have trouble latching effectively or frequently pops off during breastfeeding.
- Clicking sounds can be heard when nursing.
- Feeds are short, leaving your baby frustrated.
- Excessive gas or reflux occurs frequently.
These signs emerge because a tight tongue can’t move freely, making it difficult for your baby to form a proper seal during feeding.
2. Heart-Shaped or Notched Tongue
A telltale sign is a heart-shaped tongue. When your baby cries or tries to extend their tongue, it might appear indented or form a ‘W’ shape due to restricted movement.
In contrast, a normal tongue should be rounded and able to reach beyond the lower gums. Consider comparing photos of tongue-tied babies to visualize the difference.
3. Tongue Doesn’t Lift or Stick Out Properly
If your baby can’t lift their tongue or extend it beyond the lips, it might be a sign of restriction. Sometimes, the tongue may be extended only to one side or just a little, mistaken for a cute quirk but actually indicating a problem.
4. Baby Constantly Sticking Their Tongue Out
It’s common for babies to use their tongues to explore, but if they’re constantly sticking it out, especially after feeding, it might be because their tongue can’t settle naturally inside the mouth. This could signal a tongue tie or even a lip tie.
5. Gassy or Fussy Behavior
Imagine your baby feeling uneasy after a feed. The reason could be a tongue tie. A poor latch might cause them to swallow extra air, which leads to bloating, fussiness, or nonstop crying.
6. Difficulty Gaining Weight
Struggles with feeding can hinder proper milk intake, leading to slow or insufficient weight gain. Investigating tongue tie might be beneficial if your baby isn’t meeting growth expectations.
7. Clicking or Smacking Sounds While Feeding
If you hear clicking or smacking sounds during feeding, it’s often a clear sign of a tongue tie. This noise happens when the seal between your baby’s mouth and the breast breaks.
8. How Tongue Tie Affects Your Toddler’s Speech and Development
Though early signs occur in infancy, some tongue tie symptoms in toddlers include:
- Speech delays may occur.
- Speaking can be difficult, especially with certain sounds like ‘L,’ ‘R,’ or ‘T’.
- The tongue might look like a lizard’s or have limited motion.
- Your child might struggle to twist their tongue or perform simple oral movements.
Concerned About Tongue Tie? Here’s Your Next Step
Spotting tongue tie signs in your newborn? Consider consulting a pediatrician or pediatric dentist skilled in managing oral ties. They may perform visual and functional exams and assess feeding.
Potential treatments could include:
- Tongue tie release (frenotomy or frenuloplasty)
- Breastfeeding support (lactation consultant)
- Myofunctional therapy (if older child)
Taking Action: Final Thoughts on Tongue Tie Solutions
Recognizing tongue tie signs in your child─like heart-shaped tongues or feeding clicks─can give you the power to seek help early. The encouraging part? Tongue tie is manageable with prompt treatment, leading to improved feeding, sleeping, and overall development.
If you’re concerned about your baby being tongue tied, Milltown Dental is here to offer a comprehensive evaluation and supportive care. Reach out for assistance.
Schedule a consultation with Milltown Dental today to ensure your baby’s feeding journey is smooth and stress-free.