Tongue-tie is a birth defect that affects 4-11% of newborn babies. It's more common in boys than girls. Normally, the tongue is loosely attached to the base of the mouth with a piece of skin called the lingual frenulum.
In babies with tongue-tie, this piece of skin is unusually short and tight, restricting the tongue's movement. This prevents the baby feeding properly and also causes problems for the mother.
To breastfeed successfully, the baby needs to latch on to both the breast tissue and nipple, and their tongue needs to cover the lower gum so the nipple is protected from damage.
Babies with tongue-tie aren't able to open their mouths wide enough to latch on to their mother's breast properly. They tend to slide off the breast and chomp on the nipple with their gums.
This is very painful and the mother's nipples can become sore, with ulcers and bleeding. Some babies feed poorly and get tired, but they soon become hungry and want to feed again.
Treatment is not necessary if your baby has a piece of skin connecting the underside of their tongue to the floor of their mouth, but they can feed without any problems. If feeding is affected, the tongue-tie needs to be divided.
About video: Learn more about Tongue Ties from Dr. Meghan Van Loon naturalhealthfamily.com/. Dr Van Loon is a world renowned Pediatric and Pregnancy Chiropractor with over 20 years experience her Ithaca NY practice is a blessing to both Moms, babies and children.
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