Understanding Tongue-Tie in Babies and Children: What You Need to Know
Tongue-tie (also known as ankyloglossia) is a condition where the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual, limiting tongue movement. While some babies and children have a mild form that doesn’t cause problems, more severe cases can affect feeding, speech, and oral health.
Impact on Babies and Parents: In newborns, tongue-tie can make breastfeeding challenging. Babies may struggle to latch properly, leading to discomfort for the mother, and may not feed efficiently. This can result in poor weight gain, frustration for both parent and baby, and in some cases, nipple pain and damage for the mother.
As children grow, a tight tongue-tie can also impact speech development, making it difficult to pronounce certain sounds clearly, potentially leading to speech delays.
Treatment: If your baby or child is struggling with feeding or speech issues, a tongue-tie division may be recommended. This simple procedure involves releasing the restrictive tissue to improve tongue movement. It’s typically done quickly and can be performed in a clinic in babies, with minimal discomfort and a short recovery time.
When to See an ENT Specialist: If your baby is having difficulty breastfeeding or if you notice speech delays in your child, it’s important to seek advice from an ENT specialist. We can assess the severity of the tongue-tie and discuss treatment options to ensure the best outcome for your child’s development.