A tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition that is present at birth that can restrict the tongue’s range of movements. This is thought to be a result of both genetic and environmental factors. With a tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) can tether the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth. However, if the membrane is attached further back the tongue may look normal. This may interfere with feeding. If a baby is unable to move its tongue into the right position, they might chew instead of suck on the end of the nipple, causing pain for the mother and affecting the baby’s ability to feed. In bottle fed babies they may be slow to feed or dribble milk during a feed.
Tongue ties are incredibly common and easily fixed by a trained medical professional.
If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie then speak to your Health Visitor or GP and get them to check your baby.
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