At ABQ Pediatric Dentistry, we understand how overwhelming it can be when your baby struggles with feeding or speech development. Sometimes, these challenges are linked to a condition known as tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, where the strip of tissue beneath the tongue (the lingual frenulum) is unusually short or tight. While some cases are mild and may not require treatment, others can significantly impact a child’s ability to eat, speak, or thrive.
As parents, recognizing the signs early can make a world of difference. Tongue tie is more common than many realize, and timely evaluation allows us to determine if intervention such as frenectomies may help restore normal function. In this article, we’ll explore the key signs of tongue tie in infants and toddlers, what to watch for, and why professional evaluation is so important.
Feeding Challenges in Infants
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of tongue tie appears during feeding. Infants with restricted tongue movement often have trouble latching properly, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Parents may notice that feedings are prolonged, inefficient, or leave both baby and parent frustrated.
Other red flags include clicking sounds while nursing, frequent loss of suction, or the baby falling asleep quickly at the breast without getting a full feeding. These difficulties can lead to poor weight gain for the infant and nipple pain or damage for the nursing parent. Because feeding is such a critical part of an infant’s growth, these early challenges often prompt parents to seek evaluation.
Speech and Developmental Delays in Toddlers
As children grow, tongue tie can present new challenges—particularly in speech development. Toddlers with restricted tongue mobility may struggle to pronounce certain sounds, such as “t,” “d,” “l,” “r,” or “th.” Their speech may sound slurred, unclear, or delayed compared to peers.
Tongue tie may also impact other aspects of oral development, such as swallowing patterns and even dental alignment. While not every child with tongue tie will experience speech delays, restricted movement is a risk factor that parents and pediatric dentists take seriously, especially if combined with other difficulties.
Visible Physical Signs
In addition to functional challenges, there are physical indicators parents can look for. When a child tries to stick out their tongue, it may appear heart-shaped or not extend past the lower lip. Some children cannot lift their tongue to the roof of their mouth, making licking or clearing food from teeth difficult.
Parents may also notice that toddlers with tongue tie prefer soft foods and struggle with chewing. Drooling beyond the typical toddler stage can also signal restricted tongue movement. A pediatric dentist can quickly identify these signs during an oral exam and determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Addressing tongue tie early can prevent long-term challenges. Feeding difficulties in infancy can impact nutrition, while speech delays in toddlerhood can affect confidence and learning. Even dental development may be influenced, as tongue movement plays a role in shaping oral structures.
Fortunately, treatment is straightforward. Frenectomies are simple, safe procedures that release the restrictive tissue and restore tongue mobility. With modern techniques, they can be performed quickly, often with minimal discomfort and a short recovery period. Early evaluation helps ensure that if intervention is needed, it can be done before difficulties significantly impact a child’s growth and development.
Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
At ABQ Pediatric Dentistry, our goal is to support families by providing clarity, compassion, and effective care. We encourage parents to trust their instincts—if you notice feeding struggles, speech challenges, or visible restrictions, it’s worth seeking an evaluation. Tongue tie is treatable, and early intervention can make daily life easier for both children and parents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frenectomies
How do I know if my child really needs a frenectomy?
Not every tongue tie requires treatment. The decision depends on whether the restriction is causing functional problems such as feeding difficulties, speech delays, or oral discomfort. A pediatric dentist can evaluate the severity and recommend whether a frenectomy is appropriate.
What is recovery like after a frenectomy?
Recovery is typically quick and straightforward. Most children experience only mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Stretching exercises may be recommended to prevent reattachment. Within days, many children show noticeable improvements in feeding or speech.
At ABQ Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in caring for children from infancy through adolescence with a focus on comfort and trust. Our team is here to guide families through concerns like tongue tie and provide safe, effective solutions when needed. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and learn how we can help your child thrive.