Have you noticed your child struggling with feeding, speech, or even simple movements of the mouth? While there could be many reasons, one possible cause may be a lip and tongue tie.
Lip and tongue ties are more common than many people realise. These conditions can affect newborns, toddlers, and even older children in different ways. If not identified early, they may impact feeding, speech, and overall comfort.
Let’s begin by seeing what being diagnosed with lip and tongue tie actually means!
What Is a Lip and Tongue Tie?
A lip and tongue tie occurs when the thin piece of tissue under the tongue (called the lingual frenulum) or behind the upper lip (called the labial frenulum) is shorter, tighter, or thicker than usual. This restricts natural movement.
Some babies are born with this condition, and it can range from mild to more noticeable. In many cases, a child may not show obvious signs until feeding or speech development begins.
If you are concerned, a visit with a tongue and lip tie specialist can help with assessment and guidance.
Common Symptoms of Lip and Tongue Ties
Trouble with Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
One of the earliest signs of a lip and tongue tie can appear during feeding. For babies, this includes both breastfeeding and bottle feeding.
Some things to look out for:
- Difficulty latching or staying latched
- Long or frequent feeding sessions that still leave the baby hungry
- Clicking sounds while feeding
- Gassy or fussy behaviour during or after feeds
Feeding can be a challenge for both the baby and the parent when a lip or tongue tie is present. If these signs are ongoing, it may be time to speak with your dentist or health care provider.
Slow Weight Gain or Ongoing Hunger
If feeding is not effective, your child may not be getting the nutrients they need. This can sometimes lead to slow weight gain, even when you feel like you are doing everything right.
A lip and tongue tie can make it hard for a baby to draw out enough milk, which can leave them feeling tired or unsatisfied after feeding. Over time, this may affect weight gain, sleep patterns, and overall development.
Checking for physical restrictions inside the mouth is a gentle process and can help rule out or confirm a tongue or lip tie as part of the cause.
Signs of Discomfort or Frustration While Feeding
Feeding time should be a moment of calm, but with a lip and tongue tie, it can quickly turn into a struggle.
Here are some things parents often notice:
- The baby arches their back or pulls away while feeding
- Swallowing large amounts of air, which leads to more wind
- Choking or coughing while trying to eat
- Frequent breaks or need to reposition during a feed
These patterns can be tiring for both parent and child. While they might be caused by several different factors, a check-up with a tongue and lip tie specialist can help provide answers and options.
Speech Delays or Difficulty with Certain Sounds
As your child grows, the effects of a lip and tongue tie may begin to show in their speech.
Children with a tight frenulum may have difficulty forming certain sounds that require full tongue movement, such as:
- “L,” “R,” “T,” “D,” and “S” sounds
- Blending or connecting words
- Speaking clearly or with confidence
While speech development varies from child to child, difficulty with these sounds may be linked to a lip or tongue tie. A proper assessment can help identify if this is the case and whether further steps are needed.
Mouth Breathing or Difficulty with Oral Habits
Another subtle sign of a lip and tongue tie is how your child breathes or uses their mouth when not eating or speaking.
You may notice:
- Mouth breathing during sleep or while at rest
- Difficulty using a dummy or sucking on a thumb
- Snoring or noisy breathing
A gap between the front teeth that does not seem to be caused by spacing
While these habits might seem harmless at first, they can affect long-term oral development. The earlier they are assessed, the better the outcome may be.
What Causes Lip and Tongue Tie?
Lip and tongue ties are usually present at birth. They occur when the tissue in the mouth does not develop in the usual way during pregnancy.
In many cases, the cause is unknown. Some studies suggest that it can run in families, meaning a child is more likely to have a tie if a parent or sibling had one as well.
It is important to remember that not every tie needs treatment. If your child shows signs of difficulty and your dental or health care provider sees a restriction, they will help you understand your options.
What Happens During a Lip and Tongue Tie Procedure?
If treatment is recommended, a lip and tongue tie procedure may be considered. This is often referred to as a frenectomy or tongue tie release.
This minor procedure involves gently loosening the tight tissue so that the tongue or lip can move more freely. In some clinics, it may be done using laser or sterile scissors, depending on the case.
At Clarity Dental, we understand that any treatment for your child can feel like a big decision. That is why we take the time to explain every step, answer your questions, and provide a calm, supportive space for families.
Let’s Talk About Your Child’s Needs
At Clarity Dental, we offer thoughtful care for growing families. If you are wondering whether your child may have a lip or tongue tie, we are here to help.
Book a consultation with Clarity Dental today to speak with a friendly team that will listen, assess, and guide you every step of the way.
Because every child deserves the chance to feed, speak, and grow with comfort and ease.
Related treatment
If this is something you are considering, you can read more about lip and tongue tie assessment in Bendigo.