Tongue Tie in Children: Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options for Parents
Dr. Y.N.V.S Siva Kamesh
Ankyloglossia Commonly referred to as “Tongue-Tie" Ankyloglossia is a condition that restricts your baby’s tongue movement, because it is literally “tied” to the floor of the mouth.
What exactly happens when we say the tongue is tied to the floor of the mouth? Normally, as a baby grows in the womb, the tongue separates from the floor of the mouth at the front, while the back part remains attached. However, in tongue-tie, the band of tissue under the tongue (called the frenulum) may be too tight or short, keeping the tip of the tongue anchored to the floor of the mouth.
How severe can this condition be? Tongue-tie is clinically graded into four types according to severity by your treating doctor. It can vary — from a mild case where only a small piece of tissue limits movement, to more serious cases where most of the tongue is stuck to the bottom of the mouth.
What are the problems in a baby due to a tongue-tie? Tongue-tie can make breastfeeding difficult. A baby may have trouble latching or getting enough milk, which could result in inadequate weight gain. In addition, the mother may experience pain or discomfort when nursing, and some may feel the need to stop.
To improve feeding, a lactation consultant can help you adjust your baby’s latch or position. If these methods prove ineffective, a simple and quick procedure known as a frenulotomy can be suggested. This is however very rarely required. Your lactation consultant, pediatrician and pediatric surgeon will help you identify the best time to surgically intervene a tongue tie in a very small infant.
What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Tongue Tie in older children? A tongue-tie might cause:
Difficulty speaking clearly or pronouncing certain sounds (like “d,” “l,” “t,” or “th”)
Trouble licking their lips or licking an ice cream cone
Inability to stick the tongue out beyond the lower front teeth
Minor cuts or injuries below the tongue if the frenulum catches between teeth
Tooth decay from having difficulty removing food from the mouth
Trouble with lifting the tongue or with the side-to-side motion of the tongue
Notched or heart-shaped tongue when it is protruded.
How Is a Tongue Tie Treated? A pediatric surgeon may do one of the following procedures: Frenotomy or Frenulectomy: This involves making a small incision in the frenulum using a scalpel, scissors, or laser to release the tongue. It’s a short procedure that can be mildly uncomfortable. In younger infants who can be swaddled securely, it may be done in the clinic. In older infants or children who can’t remain still, anesthesia might be needed.
Frenuloplasty: If the child is older or the frenulum is too thick for a simple cut, a more involved surgical procedure is performed to divide and extend the frenulum. This is done under general anesthesia, ensuring the child is asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
How soon do kids recover from tongue tie surgery?
After a frenotomy, babies often heal quickly and can begin feeding. A lot of newborns get better at feeding quickly, while some could take some time to get used to it.
Older children may experience some stiffness for a couple of days, but this will resolve by itself.
When to see a doctor? Consult a doctor if:
Your baby shows signs of tongue-tie that make breastfeeding difficult.
A speech-language pathologist suspects that tongue-tie is affecting your child’s speech.
Your older child reports issues with tongue movement that affect eating, speaking, or touching the back teeth.
If you have any concerns or questions about tongue-tie, it’s best to discuss them with your child’s pediatrician or pediatric surgeon.
Why Choose Ankura Hospital for Pediatric Surgery? Ankura Hospital is known for having some of the most experienced surgeons and highly revered physicians who specialize in offering high-end care to pediatric patients from newborns to adolescents. With an emphasis on safety, precision, and empathetic care, we guarantee that each child is treated according to his/her specific requirements.
At Ankura Hospital, we understand that pediatric surgeries like tongue-tie release require a gentle approach and precise expertise. Our child-friendly environment, state-of-the-art surgical facilities, and compassionate nursing team ensure a smooth experience for both the child and the parents. We focus on quick recovery, minimal discomfort, and clear communication at every step, so families feel supported and confident in their child’s care.
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.
