Have you ever heard the term “tongue tie” and wondered what it meant? Perhaps you have a newborn and have been told they may have it, or maybe you’re a breastfeeding mother struggling with latch issues. Whatever the case may be, tongue tie is a hot topic in the world of infant feeding and can be a source of confusion and frustration for many parents. In this blog post, I aim to delve deep into the topic of tongue tie, explaining what it is, the signs and symptoms to look out for, feeding options available if you are struggling with this problem (and are currently on a waiting list!), and treatment options available to you. So, get ready to untangle the truth about tongue tie and gain a better understanding of this common condition.
First things first, what exactly is tongue tie?
Also known as ankyloglossia, tongue tie is a condition where the thin piece of tissue (lingual frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter, thicker, or tighter than usual. This can restrict the movement of the tongue, making it difficult for babies to breastfeed or, later on, for children to speak and eat properly. While some babies are the only family member born with a tongue tie, it can also be hereditary and run in families.
Signs and Symptoms in Babies to look out for
Babies with tongue tie may exhibit a variety of signs and symptoms, which can vary in severity. Some common signs to look out for include difficulty latching onto the breast, clicking noises while feeding, frequent feeding, long feeds and poor weight gain. Babies may also have difficulty sticking out their tongue, or their tongue may appear heart-shaped or notched when extended. Other signs can include excessive drooling, gagging, and reflux. Commonly, babies with tongue tie will present as unsettled babies who get frustrated at feeding times and either fall asleep from exhaustion mid feed or are very difficult to soothe. It’s important to note however that not all babies with tongue tie will experience the same symptoms, and some may not show any at all.
Signs and Symptoms in Mothers
Tongue tie can also have an impact on mothers, particularly when it comes to breastfeeding. Mothers may experience nipple pain and damage due to a poor latch, which can lead to issues such as mastitis and low milk supply. Common signs to look out for in breastfeeding mothers are misshapen (lipstick shaped) nipples, bleeding or chapped nipples or recurrent ‘thrush’. Mothers may also find themselves feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the constant struggles with feeding, leading to feelings of guilt and inadequacy. It’s crucial for parents to seek support and guidance from a lactation consultant or tongue tie specialist to address these issues and find a solution that works for both them and their baby.
Feeding Options for Babies with Tongue Tie
When it comes to feeding a baby with tongue tie, there are a few options to consider. The first is to continue breastfeeding and work on improving the latch and positioning with the help of a lactation consultant. This can involve different techniques such as using a nipple shield or trying different nursing positions. Another option is to pump breast milk and feed it to the baby through a bottle or alternative feeding device. This can help to reduce the strain on the mother’s nipples and allow the baby to receive adequate nutrition. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a surgical procedure called a frenulotomy, where the frenulum is snipped to release the tongue tie.
Treatment Options for Tongue Tie
The decision to pursue treatment for tongue tie ultimately depends on the severity of the condition and the impact it has on the baby’s ability to breastfeed and the mother’s well-being. Options are:
- Do nothing
- Alter feeding positions and methods if needed (there really is nothing wrong with feeding baby formula)
- Surgical management – Frenulotomy.
If a frenulotomy is recommended, it’s important to seek out a qualified practitioner who is experienced in performing the procedure. The Association of Tongue Tie Practitioners is a great resource for finding a qualified practitioner in your area. It’s also essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and to have a thorough understanding of the aftercare and follow-up required. Frenulotomy is a quick and simple procedure that can often be done in a doctor’s office. Risks involved in surgical treatment are rare but include failure, damage to mouth floor structures, bleeding, infection and regrowth of the frenulum; these should all be discussed with you fully before treatment is agreed.
In terms of assessing the baby for tongue tie, the Hazelbaker framework is often used as a guide for diagnosing and treating tongue tie. This framework takes into account the baby’s ability to extend their tongue, elevate their tongue, and lateralize their tongue, as well as the mother’s nipple pain and damage. By using this framework, healthcare professionals can determine the severity of the tongue tie and help the parents to make an informed decision about the best course of treatment.
So, in summary
Tongue tie is a common condition that can impact both babies and parents. It’s essential for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms and seek support from healthcare professionals if they suspect their baby may have tongue tie. With the right support and treatment, most babies can overcome tongue tie and thrive. Remember to do your research, seek out qualified practitioners, and trust your instincts as a parent. And most importantly, be kind to yourself and know that you are doing the best you can for your baby.
Keywords: tongue tie, ankyloglossia, lingual frenulum, breastfeeding, latch, feeding problems, baby
