Tongue Tie In Babies: Should You Treat It Early Or Wait?

Imagine holding your newborn in your arms, ready to breastfeed, but something doesn’t feel right. Your baby struggles to latch, fusses, and seems frustrated. This could be due to a condition called tongue tie, a congenital issue that affects an infant’s ability to move their tongue freely. Some parents and experts advocate for early treatment, while others suggest a wait-and-see approach. But what is the best course of action?

In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and potential long-term effects of tongue tie in babies. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of early intervention versus waiting, helping you make an informed decision for your child.

What Is Tongue Tie?

Understanding The Condition

Tongue tie (medically known as ankyloglossia) is a condition where the lingual frenulum—the band of tissue under the tongue—is too tight, thick, or short. This restricts tongue movement and can impact various functions, such as breastfeeding, speech development, and oral hygiene.

What Causes Tongue Tie?

The exact cause isn’t always clear, but studies suggest it may be genetic. If one parent had tongue tie, there is a higher chance their child will have it as well. It occurs in both boys and girls, though it is more commonly diagnosed in boys.

Signs And Symptoms In Babies

Difficulty With Breastfeeding

One of the earliest signs of tongue tie is trouble with breastfeeding. Babies may have difficulty latching properly, causing pain for the mother. They might frequently feed but struggle to gain weight, make a clicking sound while sucking, or choke and cough during feeding.

Speech And Oral Development Concerns

Some children with tongue tie experience speech delays or difficulties pronouncing certain letters like “L,” “R,” “T,” and “D.” They may also have trouble sticking out their tongue beyond their lips or their speech may sound unclear or slurred.

Other Potential Effects

Tongue tie can also affect a child’s oral hygiene, making it difficult to clean the mouth properly, which may lead to cavities. Some children experience difficulty chewing solid foods, and in severe cases, it can contribute to breathing issues, particularly during sleep.

Should You Treat Tongue Tie Early Or Wait?

The Case For Early Treatment

Many experts and parents opt for early treatment, which involves a minor procedure to release the tongue. This can improve breastfeeding, reduce speech development issues, and help prevent dental problems.

The most common procedures include:

• Frenotomy, a quick snip of the frenulum, which has minimal pain and recovery time.
• Laser Frenectomy, which is a more precise laser procedure that minimizes bleeding and discomfort.

The Case For Waiting

Some medical professionals advocate for a wait-and-see approach, arguing that some babies adapt naturally. Mild cases may resolve on their own as the frenulum stretches with age. Not all babies experience feeding or speech issues, and in some cases, unnecessary procedures can lead to stress and potential complications. However, waiting should be done with close monitoring by a pediatrician or lactation consultant to ensure the condition doesn’t negatively impact development.

Long-Term Effects If Left Untreated

If tongue tie remains untreated, potential consequences may arise in childhood and adulthood. Some children experience speech delays that require therapy, while others may struggle with poor dental hygiene, leading to cavities and gum disease. In some cases, tongue tie can also cause orofacial muscle imbalances, affecting jaw and facial structure.

How To Decide The Best Approach?

Consulting A Specialist

Before making a decision, it’s essential to consult with specialists. A pediatrician can provide an overall health assessment, while a lactation consultant can evaluate feeding issues. Speech therapists can help with pronunciation difficulties, and a pediatric dentist or ENT specialist—such as those at Nuffield Dental—can assess oral function.

Observing Symptoms

If your baby struggles with feeding, shows frustration while eating, or has difficulty making certain tongue movements, early treatment may be beneficial. However, if the symptoms are mild, monitoring over time could be a valid approach.

Conclusion: Should You Treat Early Or Wait?

Every baby is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. If tongue tie is causing significant feeding or speech difficulties, early treatment can be a game-changer. However, in mild cases, monitoring and working with specialists may be sufficient.

Parenting is full of tough decisions, and this is one of them. By staying informed and seeking professional advice, you can choose the best path for your child’s long-term well-being and ensure they maintain a healthy smile.

FAQs About Tongue Tie

How Common Is Tongue Tie In Babies?

Tongue tie is estimated to affect around 4-10% of newborns, though exact numbers vary due to differing diagnostic criteria.

Does Tongue Tie Always Require Surgery?

No, not all cases require surgical intervention. Some babies adapt, and therapy may help improve function.

Can Tongue Tie Affect Bottle-Fed Babies?

Yes. While bottle-feeding may be easier than breastfeeding for a baby with tongue tie, some infants still struggle with sucking and swallowing coordination.

Will My Baby Outgrow Tongue Tie?

In some cases, the frenulum stretches naturally over time, reducing restriction. However, moderate to severe cases often require treatment.

Is The Frenotomy Procedure Painful?

The procedure is quick and typically causes minimal discomfort. Many babies return to feeding immediately after.

 

Want to unlock greater wellness?

Listen to our friends over at the Wellness + Wisdom Podcast to unlock your best self with Drew Canole of Organifi: