Bringing home a new baby is exciting, but when feeding doesn’t go as smoothly as expected, it can quickly become stressful. One topic many parents hear about early on is tongue ties and how they may affect nursing.
At Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier, we’re here to help parents understand what tongue ties are, how they can impact feeding and oral development, and when it may be time to seek help.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie occurs when the thin piece of tissue under the tongue called the lingual frenulum is too tight, thick, or short. This can restrict how well the tongue moves.
Because the tongue plays a major role in feeding, swallowing, and later speech, limited movement can sometimes lead to challenges early in life.
How Can Tongue Ties Affect Nursing?
Not all tongue ties cause problems—but when they do, nursing is often where parents notice issues first.
For babies, signs may include:
- Difficulty latching or staying latched
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Gassiness or frequent spit-up
- Long or exhausting feeding sessions
- Poor weight gain
For moms, symptoms can include:
- Painful or shallow latch
- Cracked or sore nipples
- Ongoing discomfort during feeds
If nursing feels harder than expected, a tongue tie could be part of the picture.
Are There Different Types of Tongue Ties?
Yes! Tongue ties can vary in severity and location. Tongue ties in babies are mainly classified as anterior (visible, closer to the tongue tip) or posterior (“hidden,” under the mucous membrane).
Because tongue ties are not always easy to see, a functional evaluation—not just a visual exam—is essential for proper diagnosis.
How Are Tongue Ties Diagnosed?
Tongue ties are often identified by:
- Pediatricians
- Lactation consultants
- Pediatric dentists
At Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier, we look at how the tongue moves, not just how it looks. We also consider feeding history, symptoms, and overall oral development before making recommendations.
What Is a Tongue Tie Release?
If a tongue tie is causing feeding or functional concerns, treatment may be recommended. This typically involves a quick procedure called a frenectomy, which releases the tight tissue.
Parents are often relieved to learn that:
- The procedure is very fast
- Babies can usually feed shortly afterward
- Many families notice improvement quickly
Every child is different, so treatment decisions are always made on a case-by-case basis.
Can Tongue Ties Affect Teeth and Oral Health Later?
Yes. If left untreated, tongue ties may contribute to:
- Speech challenges
- Mouth breathing
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Difficulty keeping teeth clean
- Improper oral muscle development
Early evaluation allows us to support not just feeding, but long-term oral health and development.
When Should Parents Seek an Evaluation?
You may want to schedule an evaluation if:
- Nursing is painful or stressful
- Feeding concerns persist despite support
- Your baby struggles with latch or weight gain
- You’ve been referred by a lactation consultant or pediatrician
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to ask questions.
We’re Here to Help
At Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier, we believe parents deserve clear answers and compassionate care. Our board-certified pediatric dentists are specially trained to care for infants and children, with a deep understanding of their unique needs and development. Whether you’re navigating early feeding challenges or planning ahead for your child’s oral health, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Have questions or want to schedule an evaluation?
Call our office today at (318) 742-9333 or schedule an appointment now and let us support your child’s healthiest smile from the very beginning.
