How Tongue Tie Release Can Solve Breastfeeding Challenges for Newborns
Reviewed by Dr. David Sentelle, DMD, PhD, MPH
Reading time: three minutes.
If breastfeeding has been more difficult than you expected, you’re not alone. Many moms struggle with latching, milk transfer, and discomfort—but when these issues don’t improve, a tongue tie may be the cause.
A tongue tie happens when the thin band of tissue under the tongue is too tight, restricting movement. This can make nursing painful and frustrating for both mom and baby.
At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in McKinney, TX, we offer laser tongue-tie release, to help make feeding easier and more comfortable.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
A tongue tie can make breastfeeding difficult by restricting a baby’s tongue movement, leading to poor latching, low milk transfer, and discomfort for both mom and baby. A quick procedure called a frenectomy can help improve feeding, support healthy weight gain, and make nursing more comfortable.
What Is Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum—the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is too short, thick, or tight.
This restricts tongue mobility, making it hard for babies to move their tongues freely. There are two types:
- Anterior: A visible piece of skin near the tip of the tongue.
- Posterior: A tight band deeper under the tongue, often harder to spot.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “up to 10% of all babies are born with a tongue tie.” This can lead to breastfeeding challenges, poor weight gain, and even long-term issues with speech development.
How Tongue Tie Affects Breastfeeding
A tongue tie can make it harder for a baby to move their tongue properly, which affects their ability to latch and nurse effectively. This can lead to:
- Pain for the mother – Sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples due to a shallow or inefficient latch.
- Low milk transfer – Babies may struggle to remove enough milk, which can lead to frequent feedings and a decrease in milk supply over time.
- Feeding frustrations – Babies may become fussy, tire easily while nursing, or seem constantly hungry because they aren’t getting enough milk.
Lactation consultants often notice signs like clicking sounds while nursing, prolonged feeding sessions, or difficulty maintaining a deep latch.
If feeding remains painful or your baby isn’t gaining weight as expected, a tongue tie could be the cause. Addressing it early can make a big difference in breastfeeding success.
Signs Your Baby May Have Tongue Tie
How to know if a baby has tongue tie:
- Difficulty lifting the tongue or moving it side-to-side.
- A heart-shaped tongue tip when crying.
- Maternal nipple pain that persists despite correct breastfeeding positions.
- Poor weight gain or frequent hunger cues after feeding.
A healthcare professional can confirm a diagnosis through a physical exam, assessing the range of motion and appearance of the frenulum.
Beyond Infancy: Tongue Tie in Older Children
Untreated tongue ties can impact older children, leading to:
- Speech delays or articulation issues (often addressed by a speech therapist).
- Difficulty chewing solid foods.
- Oral hygiene challenges due to limited tongue cleaning.
Early intervention—ideally within the first months of age—is key to preventing these issues.
The Solution: Laser Frenectomy at Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry
Our team uses the LightScalpel CO2 laser—a state-of-the-art laser frenectomy—to perform tongue-tie release as a quick, safe procedure in our office. Here’s why families choose us:
- Minimal discomfort: The laser seals nerves and blood vessels, reducing pain.
- Faster healing: Precision technology promotes quicker recovery than sterile scissors or traditional methods.
- Expert care: Drs. Rubin, Sentelle, and Ashley are accredited in laser dentistry, ensuring your child’s comfort and safety.
During this simple procedure, the restrictive fibrous tissue is gently divided, improving tongue mobility immediately. Most mothers notice better latching and reduced nipple pain within days.
Book a Consult At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in McKinney, TX
Our pediatric dentists are dedicated to resolving breastfeeding concerns with compassion and cutting-edge care.
If you are navigating breastfeeding challenges or suspect symptoms of tongue tie, contact us today.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in McKinney, TX, call (214) 436-5555 or visit us at 5323 W University Dr #100, McKinney, Texas.