As children grow, their ability to feed, speak, and thrive depends on the freedom of movement inside their mouths. For some, a condition called a tongue tie can make everyday functions more challenging. Parents may first notice difficulties with breastfeeding as infants, or speech struggles as toddlers. In either case, understanding tongue tie is the first step in deciding whether treatment may be needed.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie occurs when the band of tissue under the tongue — known as the lingual frenulum — is too short, thick, or tight. This restricts the tongue’s range of motion, making it harder to move freely.
While not every tongue tie causes problems, some can interfere with feeding, speech, and oral development. That’s why it’s important for parents to know what signs to look for.
Signs of a Tongue Tie in Infants
Tongue ties are often identified early in life, since infants may struggle to feed effectively. Possible signs include:
- Trouble latching during breastfeeding
- Clicking or popping sounds while nursing
- Long or frequent feeding sessions without satisfaction
- Fussiness or frustration at the breast or bottle
- Slow weight gain
- Painful nursing for the mother
If feeding is consistently difficult despite lactation support, a tongue tie could be a contributing factor.
How Tongue Ties Affect Older Children
Sometimes a tongue tie isn’t detected in infancy, but signs appear later as children grow. In toddlers and older kids, issues may include:
- Speech difficulties, such as trouble pronouncing certain sounds
- Limited ability to stick out or move the tongue
- Difficulty licking lips or cleaning food from the mouth
- Challenges with chewing or swallowing certain foods
- A gap between the lower front teeth caused by tension on the tongue
These challenges can affect a child’s comfort, confidence, and development if not addressed.
Does Every Tongue Tie Need Treatment?
Not necessarily. Some children with a tongue tie adapt without major issues, while others experience persistent challenges that affect daily life. The decision to treat usually depends on:
- Severity of restriction in tongue movement
- Whether feeding is effective and comfortable
- Impact on speech development
- Guidance from pediatricians, dentists, or speech therapists
In many cases, an evaluation helps families decide whether observation, therapy, or a minor surgical procedure is the best path forward.
How Tongue Ties Are Treated
The most common treatment for a tongue tie is a frenectomy, a simple procedure that releases the restrictive tissue under the tongue.
Here’s what typically happens:
- The frenulum is carefully released using sterile instruments or a dental laser.
- The procedure is quick, often taking only a few minutes.
- Babies can usually feed immediately afterward, while older children often notice improvements in speech or comfort over time.
Modern techniques, especially with dental lasers, make the procedure safe, precise, and minimally uncomfortable.
Benefits of Tongue Tie Treatment
For children who are struggling, releasing a tongue tie can bring major improvements:
- Easier, more effective feeding for infants
- Relief for mothers experiencing painful breastfeeding
- Clearer speech for toddlers and school-aged children
- More natural oral function for eating, swallowing, and speaking
- Reduced frustration and greater confidence for kids as they grow
While outcomes vary, many families notice a difference quickly after treatment.
When to Seek an Evaluation
If your child shows signs of difficulty with feeding, speech, or tongue movement, it’s worth seeking a professional evaluation. An exam can help determine:
- Whether a tongue tie is present
- How much it restricts the tongue’s movement
- Whether treatment may benefit your child now or in the future
Parents don’t need to make the decision alone — pediatric dental and medical professionals can guide families with expertise and compassion.
Gentle Tongue Tie Care in Lafayette
If you’re concerned that a tongue tie may be affecting your child’s ability to eat or speak, help is available. At Park Pediatric Dentistry in Lafayette, Dr. Hannah B. Noto and her caring team provide thorough evaluations and gentle treatment for tongue ties. With modern techniques and a child-centered approach, we make care safe, simple, and supportive for families.
Schedule your child’s tongue tie evaluation today and take the first step toward easier feeding, clearer speech, and improved confidence.