Tongue-tie is a condition that some babies are born with. It can limit tongue movement and may affect feeding or speech. At Banner Children’s, we offer expert care and support to help your baby thrive. Learn how to spot tongue-tie, how it’s diagnosed and the treatment options available.
Tongue-tie, also called ankyloglossia, happens when the frenulum - the band of tissue under the tongue - is too short or tight. This restricts how the tongue moves. Some babies with tongue-tie have no issues, while others may struggle with breastfeeding or speaking clearly later on.
The cause of tongue-tie isn’t fully understood. It may run in families, but doctors don’t always know why it happens. The condition is present at birth and may vary in severity from one baby to another.
Tongue-tie can be easy to miss. In some cases, it causes noticeable problems, especially with feeding. Signs your baby may have tongue-tie include:
If you notice any of these signs, talk to your baby’s doctor.
Tongue-tie is usually diagnosed during a newborn’s physical exam. Your pediatrician will check how well your baby can move their tongue. They may use tools like the TABBY (Tongue-tie and Breastfed Babies) or BTAT (Bristol Tongue Assessment Tool) to evaluate the tongue’s range of motion and how it affects feeding.
The best treatment for tongue-tie depends on how much the condition is affecting your baby. Some mild cases may improve on their own as the tissue loosens over time. If tongue-tie is causing problems, your doctor may recommend a simple surgical procedure.
HA frenotomy is a short procedure where the tight frenulum is snipped to free up tongue movement. Most babies can breastfeed right after the procedure. Full healing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks.
If the frenulum is thick or hard to access, your surgeon may recommend a frenuloplasty. This is done under general anesthesia in a surgical setting. The tissue is cut and small stitches are placed, which dissolve over time. Your baby will be able to feed right after surgery - follow your doctor’s instructions for post-op care.
If your baby is diagnosed with tongue-tie, our pediatric specialists will walk you through all available options. At Banner Children’s, we’re here to support your baby’s healthy development and help you feel confident in each stage of their care.
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