Successful breastfeeding requires a baby to effectively latch onto the breast. In some cases, infants with lip and/or tongue ties may face challenges in achieving this, potentially leading to latch difficulties and other nursing concerns. It's important to recognize various symptoms during nursing that might indicate a tongue tie
Tongue ties can impact not only babies but also breastfeeding mothers, potentially leading to physical challenges during nursing. It's important to be aware of how tethered oral tissue in infants might contribute to these difficulties:
The 30 second tongue tie release procedure allows the tongue to lift to the palate providing the latch and suction that is needed to draw the milk from mom. We commonly find that a lip tie is present as well. This is equally important to release because if a baby cannot flare their upper lip they will not be able to latch onto the breast, making breastfeeding difficult, or even impossible. In most cases, once the ties are released, the baby is able to nurse within minutes of the procedure.
We do everything we can to make tongue tie release procedures quick and comfortable for babies. The goal is to improve tongue mobility, potentially aiding in better latch and suction for breastfeeding. Additionally, addressing a concurrent lip tie may further facilitate effective nursing. Once the ties are released, our goal is for the baby to be able to nurse within minutes of the procedure.
Some oral issues related to tethered oral tissue persist after infancy. If symptoms suggestive of a tongue tie are observed in a child, even if previously unconfirmed, further evaluation might be necessary to explore the possibility of a less obvious posterior or 'hidden' tongue tie. Symptoms may include:
Tongue ties, if not addressed, may have implications for a child's oral development. While many children adapt without speech difficulties, some might experience challenges. If you recognize any of these signs in your child, you may want to consult a specialist for evaluation.
A practical, though not definitive, approach for parents is to observe if a child can easily lick an ice cream cone or lollipop. Challenges in doing so might indicate a need for professional evaluation.
Tongue ties can potentially influence oral and facial development, which may affect airway function. It's important to be aware of symptoms in adolescents or adults and consider seeking expert advice if you notice any:
The treatment for tongue tie aims to enhance tongue mobility, potentially assisting in better resting positions and contributing to improved sleep quality by addressing airway obstruction issues.
In some cases, tongue ties may negatively impact jaw joint health and function. This can affect head posture, which in turn may impact muscles like the SCM (sternocleidomastoid muscle) and trapezius, potentially leading to various symptoms such as:
If symptoms like the ones listed above are related to a tongue tie, tongue tie release treatment may help in aligning the head and spine. Various myofunctional and physical therapy exercises may also be beneficial in adjusting posture and addressing discomfort.
MOTHERS: In some cases, there can be emotional consequences related to tongue ties, particularly in the context of postpartum experiences. Feelings of guilt or stress in new mothers facing breastfeeding challenges that may be related to a tongue tie should be addressed with understanding and support.
CHILDREN: Speech and eating difficulties may affect confidence, and ongoing discomfort in older individuals could have an emotional impact. Our team is dedicated to providing education, support, and potential relief for these challenges.
If you are experiencing issues related to tongue ties, our team is ready to assist with diagnosis and treatment. For further details or to consult with a specialist, please contact us at (720) 507-0077 or visit our office at 4704 Harlan Street, #350, Denver, CO 80212.