Tongue Ties in Babies and Children

Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team

Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board

Last updated: August 2025

All pediatric dental and oral health content on this page has been reviewed and approved by licensed pediatric dentists and dental specialists on the DrSensory Clinical Review Board. Our reviewers follow strict editorial standards and ensure alignment with current pediatric dental guidelines, evidence-based practices, and standards in oral developmental care.

1 of 7 / Overview

Tongue Ties in Babies and Children

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually short or tight. This restricts tongue movement and can lead to difficulties in breastfeeding, eating, oral development, and even speech.

At DrSensory, we take a holistic approach to recommending therapists who treat tongue ties—collaborating with families, pediatric dentists, lactation consultants, and speech therapists to ensure children not only receive necessary procedures but also proper oral-motor rehabilitation afterward.

2 of 7 / Signs & Symptoms

Tongue ties can present differently depending on a child’s age and development. Signs may include:

In Infants:

  • Difficulty latching or prolonged breastfeeding
  • Clicking sounds while nursing
  • Gassy or fussy feeding patterns
  • Poor weight gain
  • Sore nipples for nursing mothers

In Toddlers and Children:

  • Difficulty with chewing and swallowing
  • Delayed speech or unclear articulation
  • Limited tongue mobility (can’t stick tongue out or side to side)
  • Challenges with oral hygiene (food trapped easily)
  • Frustration with textures or certain foods

3 of 7 / Causes & Risks

Tongue tie is a congenital condition, meaning a child is born with it. Though the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be genetic.

Potential risks if left untreated include:

  • Poor feeding and nutrition
  • Delayed speech development
  • Orthodontic problems later on
  • Ongoing oral-motor difficulties
  • Emotional frustration from communication barriers

4 of 7 / Diagnosis & tests

Tongue ties are typically diagnosed through a physical examination. At DrSensory, we also assess:

  • Functional movement of the tongue
  • Feeding efficiency (for infants)
  • Speech clarity (in toddlers and older children)
  • Oral habits and compensatory movements

We collaborate with pediatricians, dentists, and lactation consultants for a comprehensive view.

5 of 7 / Care & treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of restriction and the child’s age and symptoms. Options include:

  • Monitoring (for mild, asymptomatic ties)
  • Frenotomy or Frenuloplasty: A minor surgical procedure to release the tongue tie
  • Post-procedure therapy: Orofacial myofunctional therapy or speech therapy is often recommended to re-train tongue movement and build proper oral habits.

Why Therapy Matters: Many children continue to use restricted patterns even after the release. Therapy ensures long-term success in feeding, speech, and oral coordination.

6 of 7 / Living With

Life after tongue tie release is often dramatically improved — but only when proper support is given. Parents should:

  • Follow a structured therapy plan post-release
  • Be patient with progress, especially in older children
  • Watch for compensatory behaviors (like mouth breathing or chewing on one side)
  • Ensure consistent oral exercises if recommended

At DrSensory, we guide families through every step, ensuring your child thrives beyond the procedure.

7 of 7 / related reading

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tongue tie in babies and how does it affect feeding?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) in babies is a condition where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or short. This can restrict tongue movement and may cause breastfeeding difficulties, such as poor latch, nipple pain, or inadequate milk transfer. Early diagnosis is important for effective feeding and oral development.

How can I tell if my baby has a tongue tie?

Common signs of a tongue tie in infants include trouble latching during breastfeeding, clicking sounds while nursing, prolonged feeding times, gassiness, or weight gain issues. You might also notice that your baby can’t stick their tongue out past their lower lip or has a heart-shaped or notched tongue tip. A pediatric dentist or lactation consultant can provide a proper evaluation.

Can a tongue tie cause speech delays or dental problems in children?

Yes, untreated tongue ties in toddlers and older children can contribute to speech articulation difficulties, difficulty with certain sounds, and even dental issues like improper tongue posture or spacing between teeth. Early intervention can support proper oral motor development and prevent long-term complications.

What is a tongue tie release (frenectomy) and is it safe for babies?

A tongue tie release, also known as a frenectomy or frenotomy, is a minor procedure where the tight frenulum is snipped or lasered to free the tongue’s movement. It’s generally quick, safe, and causes minimal discomfort. Many parents report immediate improvements in breastfeeding and oral function following the procedure.

When should a tongue tie be treated and who should I consult?

If a tongue tie is interfering with feeding, speech, or oral development, treatment may be recommended. You should consult a pediatric dentist, ENT specialist, or a lactation consultant experienced in oral ties. Early evaluation ensures timely support for your child’s feeding and developmental needs.

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Glossary

Ankyloglossia (Tongue Tie)

A condition where the lingual frenulum (the band of tissue under the tongue) is too short, tight, or thick, restricting normal tongue movement and function.

Lingual Frenulum

The small fold of tissue under the tongue that connects it to the floor of the mouth. In tongue tie cases, this tissue is unusually tight or short.

Frenectomy (Tongue Tie Release)

A minor surgical procedure to release or remove the restrictive lingual frenulum, improving tongue mobility. It can be done with scissors or laser.

Oral Motor Function

Refers to how the muscles of the mouth, tongue, and jaw move and work together for feeding, swallowing, and speech. Tongue ties can interfere with proper oral motor development.

Latch

The way a baby’s mouth attaches to the breast or bottle nipple during feeding. A poor latch due to tongue tie can cause pain for the caregiver and feeding challenges for the baby.

Bodywork (Pre- and Post-Frenectomy Support)

Gentle physical therapy techniques such as craniosacral therapy, myofunctional therapy, or chiropractic care that support oral function before and after a tongue tie release.