10 Signs Your Baby Might Have a Tongue Tie: When to Seek Help

Last updated February 6, 2025

As a parent, you know how overwhelming it can be to navigate the world of baby care, especially regarding feeding and speech development. One often overlooked issue that can impact both is a tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia.

If you’re concerned that your child might struggle with this common condition, I’m here to help you identify the signs to look for and when to seek professional help.

By being aware of these indicators, you can ensure your baby receives the support they need to thrive.

Identifying the Signs

A tongue tie can manifest in various ways, and as a parent, you must recognize these signs early on to ensure your baby receives proper care and support.

Difficulty Latching or Feeding

On close observation, you may notice that your baby has trouble latching onto your breast or bottle, leading to feeding difficulties and frustration for both of you.

Fussiness During Meals

For many babies with a tongue tie, mealtime can be a source of discomfort and anxiety, leading to fussiness, squirming, and even refusal to feed.

Consequently, this fussiness can be misinterpreted as colic or gas when, in fact, it may be a sign of a tongue tie.

If you, as a parent, notice persistent feeding difficulties or discomfort during meals, you should consider this possibility and consult with a healthcare professional.

Physical Characteristics

There’s more to identifying a tongue tie than observing your baby’s behavior.

Certain physical characteristics can also indicate a potential issue.

As a parent, you must familiarize yourself with these signs to provide your baby with the best care.

Limited Tongue Mobility

Restricted tongue movement is often a telltale sign of a tongue tie. If your baby’s tongue appears stiff or struggles to move freely, it may indicate a tethered oral tissue restricting its range of motion.

Heart-Shaped Tongue

Approximately 70% of babies with a tongue tie exhibit a heart-shaped tongue with a more pointed tip than usual. This unique shape is caused by the tongue’s inability to extend fully due to the restrictive tissue.

Considering the significance of a heart-shaped tongue in diagnosing a tongue tie, it is imperative to inspect your baby’s tongue regularly.

Gently lift your baby’s tongue and observe its shape. If you notice a heart-shaped tongue, consult your pediatrician or a lactation consultant to discuss potential next steps.

Feeding Difficulties

Any difficulties with feeding can be a sign of a tongue tie, and as a parent, it’s crucial to recognize these signs early on. If your baby has trouble latching, staying latched, or seems uncomfortable during feeding, it may be related to a tongue tie.

Gagging or Choking

On occasion, I’ve seen babies gag or choke during feeding, which can be a sign of a tongue tie.

The tongue cannot move freely, causing milk to flow too quickly, leading to gagging or choking.

This particular symptom can have various causes and is not exclusively linked to tongue tie.

Slow Weight Gain

Difficulties with feeding can also lead to slow weight gain in your baby. If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, it’s crucial to investigate the cause, as a tongue tie could be the underlying issue.

It’s concerning when your baby does not gain weight at the expected rate. As a parent, you want to ensure your baby gets the nutrients it needs to thrive.

If you suspect a tongue tie is causing slow weight gain, consult your pediatrician or a lactation consultant to determine the best course of action.

Speech Development

A tongue tie can affect your baby’s speech development, and monitoring their progress is imperative.

As a parent, you’re likely eager to hear your little one’s first words and watch them learn to communicate effectively. However, if your baby has a tongue tie, they may struggle to articulate certain sounds or speak clearly.

Speech delays or difficulties with articulation can be a sign that your baby is struggling to overcome the physical limitations imposed by a tongue tie.

It may be worth investigating if your baby has trouble babbling, making sounds, or saying their first words.

Behind the scenes, a tongue tie can cause difficulties with specific sounds, such as “t,” “d,” “l,” or “r,” which require precise tongue movements. These sounds may be distorted, omitted, or substituted with other sounds, making it challenging for your baby to communicate effectively.

When to Seek Professional Help

Not every baby with a tongue tie will exhibit all the signs I’ve listed, but if you’ve noticed several of them, it’s time to seek professional help.

As a parent, it’s imperative to trust your instincts and advocate for your child’s well-being. If you’re concerned about your baby’s tongue tie, don’t hesitate to call us at Upland Laser Dental Center today.

Consulting a Pediatrician or Lactation Consultant

Around the same time you start noticing signs of a tongue tie, consider consulting a pediatrician or lactation consultant. They can assess your baby’s overall health and provide personalized advice on addressing issues related to the tongue tie.

These professionals can also offer valuable guidance on breastfeeding and helping your baby overcome any challenges they may be facing.

Getting a Proper Diagnosis

Above all, getting a proper diagnosis is imperative to determine the best course of action for your baby. A thorough examination by a qualified healthcare professional can help identify the severity of the tongue tie and rule out any other underlying conditions contributing to your baby’s symptoms.

Further, a proper diagnosis will also involve a thorough assessment of your baby’s oral anatomy, including the tongue, lips, and jaw.

This examination may involve a visual inspection and a gentle manipulation of your baby’s tongue and lips to assess their range of motion and function.

Getting a proper diagnosis will ensure that you’re taking the right steps to support your baby’s health and development.

Final Words

Upon reflecting on the signs of tongue tie in your baby, I want to reassure you that seeking help is a responsible and caring decision. You know your child best as a parent, and trusting your instincts can make all the difference.

If you recognize several of the signs mentioned, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional.

Proper evaluation and treatment can help your baby thrive and develop healthy feeding habits. By being proactive, you’ll give your child the best possible start in life.