If your newborn is struggling to latch during breastfeeding, the issue may be more than just learning the process. A tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the thin piece of tissue under the tongue restricts movement. This restriction can make it nearly impossible for your baby to latch properly, leading to frustration for both you and your little one. Understanding the signs of a tongue-tie can help you get the support your baby needs early.
Many new parents assume breastfeeding challenges are simply part of the adjustment period. While some difficulty is normal in the first few days, persistent latching problems often point to an underlying issue. A tongue-tie prevents the tongue from moving freely, which is essential for creating the suction and motion needed for effective nursing. The good news is that this condition is both diagnosable and treatable.
Recognizing the Physical Signs
One of the most obvious indicators of a tongue-tie is restricted tongue movement. When you gently lift your baby’s tongue, you might notice that the thin membrane underneath appears too short or extends all the way to the tip. In some cases, the tongue may form a heart shape when your baby tries to stick it out, or it may not extend past the lower gum line at all.
Your baby might also have trouble moving their tongue from side to side. This limited mobility affects how they cup the breast during feeding, leading to ineffective milk transfer. Babies are born with all of their baby teeth already in their jaw, and proper tongue function is crucial not just for feeding but also for future oral development.
Common Feeding Difficulties
Babies with tongue-ties often exhibit specific feeding behaviors that signal trouble. You may notice that your newborn has difficulty staying latched, frequently losing suction or sliding off the breast entirely. These interrupted feeding sessions can leave your baby hungry and irritable, even after extended nursing attempts.
Many mothers also experience physical discomfort as a result of their baby’s tongue-tie. Because the baby cannot create proper suction, they may compensate by using their gums to clamp down, causing nipple pain, cracking, or even bleeding. If feedings consistently feel painful beyond the initial latch, a tongue-tie could be the culprit. Additionally, you might hear clicking or smacking sounds during nursing, which indicate that your baby is losing suction repeatedly.
Impact Beyond Infancy
While immediate feeding concerns are the primary reason to address tongue-ties in newborns, this condition can also affect long-term oral development and overall health. At Lotus Dental Associates, Dr. Nhung Phan has developed extensive expertise in treating tethered oral tissues in patients of all ages. Her airway-focused approach recognizes that tongue-ties can contribute to breathing difficulties, speech delays, and even dental alignment problems as children grow.
If left untreated, tongue-ties may lead to challenges with introducing solid foods, as babies need full tongue mobility to move food around their mouths and swallow safely. Some children with unaddressed tongue-ties also develop speech difficulties, particularly with sounds that require the tongue to reach the roof of the mouth.
What to Do If You Suspect a Tongue-Tie
The first step is to schedule an evaluation with a healthcare provider experienced in identifying and treating tongue-ties. A frenectomy, a simple procedure that releases the restrictive tissue, can often be performed quickly with minimal discomfort. Many parents report immediate improvements in their baby’s ability to latch following the procedure.
At Lotus Dental Associates, we understand how stressful feeding difficulties can be for new parents. Our judgment-free approach ensures that you receive compassionate guidance and expert care tailored to your baby’s specific needs. Dr. Phan’s training in tethered oral tissue treatment combines precision with a gentle touch, making the experience as smooth as possible for both you and your baby.
Get Professional Help at Lotus Dental Associates
If your newborn is showing signs of a tongue-tie, early intervention can make a significant difference in their feeding success and overall development. Our team at Lotus Dental Associates in Fort Mill specializes in diagnosing and treating tongue-ties in patients of all ages, from newborns to adults. Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Phan. We serve families throughout Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Charlotte, and Ballantyne, and we’re here to help your family thrive with comprehensive, compassionate care.
