Tongue Tie in Babies (Ankyloglossia): Causes, Symptoms & Natural Treatment Options

Tongue Tie in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, Complications & Treatment Options

If you’re concerned your baby might have a tongue tie, you’re not alone. Tongue tie affects roughly 5% of newborns and can impact breastfeeding, swallowing, oral function, and even early speech development. While some babies have mild restrictions that resolve naturally, others require evaluation and early intervention to prevent long-term complications.

At Revive Chiropractic & Wellness, Dr. Kim Tran specializes in pediatric chiropractic care and provides gentle, supportive treatment for infants with symptoms related to oral restrictions. Our goal is to help families understand tongue tie, recognize the signs, and explore treatment options when appropriate.

Tongue Tie: What Is It?

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the lingual frenulum—the small band of tissue under the tongue—is shorter, thicker, or tighter than usual. Because this tissue restricts movement, it can make it difficult for a baby to lift, extend, or coordinate the tongue properly.

This impacts:

• Breastfeeding/latching

• Oral suction

• Swallowing

• Speech (later in childhood)

• Overall oral development

Boys are three times more likely than girls to have a tongue tie.

Ankyloglossia Explained

A restrictive frenulum can:

• Prevent effective feeding

• Limit tongue extension

• Affect oral motor development

• Create compensations in neck, jaw, and facial muscles

• Lead to fatigue and discomfort for both baby and parent

Some babies show no symptoms at all, while others struggle significantly.

Signs & Symptoms of Tongue Tie in Babies

Recognizing early signs is essential. Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty latching or staying latched

• Clicking sounds while feeding

• Weak or inconsistent sucking

• Poor weight gain

• Heart-shaped or notched tongue tip

• Trouble lifting the tongue

• Difficulty moving the tongue side-to-side

• Breastfeeding pain for the mother

• Maternal nipple damage or clogged ducts

• Baby falls asleep quickly at the breast due to fatigue

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause is unknown, risk factors include:

• Genetics — tongue tie can run in families

• Male gender — affects boys more often

• Prenatal factors — certain environmental influences may play a role

Possible Complications of Untreated Tongue Tie

If left unaddressed, tongue tie may contribute to:

Breastfeeding difficulties

Poor latch, inefficient feeding, maternal pain, or early weaning.

Speech challenges

Difficulty producing sounds like L, T, D, R, N, or TH.

Oral hygiene issues

Reduced tongue mobility may limit the ability to clear food from teeth and gums.

Difficulty transitioning to solids

Chewing and swallowing may become challenging.

Airway & craniofacial development concerns

Restricted tongue movement may contribute to oral-motor dysfunction.

Emotional & social frustration

Challenges with feeding or articulation may affect confidence.

Tongue Tie Treatment Options

The best approach depends on severity and feeding or development concerns.

Observation & Monitoring

Mild cases may improve naturally as the baby grows.

Oral Exercises & Bodywork

Chiropractic support, stretches, and oral motor exercises may improve mobility and breastfeeding outcomes.

Frenotomy (Clipping)

A simple, often quick procedure performed without anesthesia in infants under 12 months. Healing typically takes 3–4 days.

Frenuloplasty (Surgical Revision)

Used in more complex cases requiring deeper or more controlled release.

Early evaluation helps determine whether your baby truly needs intervention or simply supportive care.

When to Seek Help: Early Intervention Matters

If your baby is struggling to latch, tiring quickly during feeding, or showing signs of restricted tongue movement, professional evaluation is essential.

At Revive Chiropractic & Wellness, we work closely with:

• Lactation consultants

• Breastfeeding coaches

• Pediatric dentists

• Speech therapists

This ensures your baby receives holistic, comprehensive care that supports feeding, comfort, and development.

Request a Tongue Tie Evaluation Today

You don’t have to navigate tongue tie alone. Dr. Kim Tran provides gentle pediatric chiropractic care to support oral function, reduce tension in the neck and jaw, and help babies feed more effectively—whether or not a frenotomy is needed.

📞 Call (281) 246-2001 to schedule your evaluation in Cypress or Houston, Texas.