Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team
Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board
Last updated: June 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tongue tie in babies?
A 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 with breastfeeding, eating, oral development, and speech.
How do I know if my baby has a tongue tie?
In infants, signs may include difficulty latching or prolonged breastfeeding, clicking sounds while nursing, gassy or fussy feeding patterns, poor weight gain, and sore nipples for nursing mothers.
What happens if a tongue tie is left untreated?
Potential risks if left untreated include poor feeding and nutrition, delayed speech development, orthodontic problems later on, ongoing oral-motor difficulties, and emotional frustration from communication barriers.
How is a tongue tie treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the restriction and the child's age and symptoms. Options include monitoring for mild, asymptomatic ties, a minor surgical release called a frenotomy or frenuloplasty, and post-procedure therapy such as orofacial myofunctional therapy or speech therapy.
Does my child still need therapy after a tongue tie release?
Therapy is often recommended because many children continue to use restricted tongue patterns even after the release. Orofacial myofunctional or speech therapy helps re-train tongue movement and supports long-term success in feeding, speech, and oral coordination.
