Some babies are born with a tongue tie (ankyloglossia), and other babies may not show signs early on, but develop one later. It is not an uncommon condition. Tongue tie is simply an extra piece of mucosa holding the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. If you notice that your child has a hard time sticking out their tongue, difficulty moving the tongue up or side-to-side, has a notched or heart-shaped tongue when they stick out their tongue, difficulty breast-feeding/latching, or they have difficulty speaking (ex: slurring words), they may have a tongue tie.
Initially, a Lactation specialist or Speech pathologist may be consulted to help. Some children may not require treatment because as they grow, their tongue gets longer and the tongue tie is no longer an issue. However, definitive treatment may require surgery, which involves clipping of the tongue tie (called frenotomy or frenulotomy). It is a minimally invasive and quick procedure.
If you are unsure whether your child has a tongue tie or you believe they need treatment for their tongue tie, please ask your pediatrician.
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