Signs Your Baby May Have Tongue-Tie
Signs Your Baby May Have Tongue-Tie
As a parent, ensuring your baby’s health and development is a top priority. One condition that can sometimes go unnoticed but significantly impacts your baby’s life is . Medically known as ankyloglossia, tongue-tie is a condition where the tissue (frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually short, thick, or tight. This restricts the movement of the tongue, leading to various issues. If this sounds familiar, please schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentist in Okemos, MI — Dr. Neeru Ramaswami.
Recognizing the signs of tongue-tie early can make a big difference in your baby’s development and quality of life.
Here are key signs your child may have tongue-tie.
Difficulty Breastfeeding
One of the most common is difficulty with breastfeeding. A baby with tongue-tie may have trouble latching onto the breast properly, which can lead to inefficient feeding.
Signs to watch for include:
- Prolonged feeding times
- Frequent feedings
- Poor weight gain
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Sore, cracked nipples for the mother
If you’re experiencing any of these challenges, it might be worth investigating whether tongue-tie is the cause.
Limited Tongue Movement
Babies with tongue-tie often have restricted tongue movement. You might notice that your baby cannot stick their tongue out past their lower gums or lift it to the roof of their mouth. Additionally, the tongue may appear heart-shaped or notched at the tip when extended.
Observing your baby’s tongue movements during feeding or when they are crying can provide clues about the presence of a tongue-tie.
Poor Weight Gain
If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, tongue-tie might be a contributing factor. Difficulty in breastfeeding can lead to inadequate intake of milk, which in turn can affect your baby’s growth and development. Regular weight checks and monitoring feeding patterns are important to identify any issues early.
Excessive Drooling
While drooling is common in babies, excessive drooling could be a sign your child needs laser tongue-tie release. If your baby is constantly drooling and having difficulty swallowing saliva, it might be due to restricted tongue movement.
Gassiness and Colic
Babies with tongue-tie might swallow more air during feedings due to poor latch and inefficient sucking. This can lead to increased gassiness and symptoms of colic, such as excessive crying and discomfort.
Speech and Developmental Milestones
As your baby grows, untreated tongue-tie can affect speech development and other milestones. Early signs might include difficulty making certain sounds, such as “t,” “d,” and “l.” Monitoring your baby’s vocalizations and responses to sounds can help identify potential issues.
What to Do if You Suspect Tongue-Tie
If you observe any of these signs in your baby, it’s essential to consult with Dr. Ramaswami so she can diagnose and treat any tongue-tie. During your child’s appointment, she can conduct a thorough examination and recommend the appropriate course of action. Laser tongue-tie release is a minimally invasive procedure that can significantly improve tongue mobility and alleviate the associated symptoms.
Early detection and treatment of tongue-tie can lead to better outcomes for your baby. By being aware of the signs and seeking prompt evaluation, you can help ensure your baby’s optimal growth and development. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our pediatric dental practice. We’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Book a Tongue-Tie Consultation
Dr. Neeru Ramaswami is proud to serve as your trusted pediatric dentist in Okemos, MI. To schedule a consultation for your child, please call the Michigan Tongue-Tie and Airway Center at (517) 574-4688. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our helpful team will reach out to you soon.