Common Signs and Symptoms of a Tongue Tie
Determining if your infant has a tongue tie can be confusing and a bit overwhelming. Let’s chat about common signs and symptoms that might flag the necessity for a consult with a knowledgeable provider.
Here’s the thing, despite the pretty straightforward title of this blog, diagnosing tongue ties isn’t as straightforward as simply taking a peek under the tongue, nor is it checking boxes on a list. Despite the neat and organized list of possible signs and symptoms of tongue ties below, there’s something missing from just looking at a list for a diagnosis - an exam with a professional who can rule out other causes. Prior to even considering a release, it’s important to rule out other causes of dysfunction such as body tension, positioning during feeds, supply management, and SO much more. A list is just that - a list - not a thorough exam that evaluates function or rules out other potential contributing factors.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Ties In Babies:
More than average spitting up / reflux
Falls asleep in the middle of a feed
Slides or pops on and off the nipple
Blister on the upper lip
General fussiness / colic symptoms
Difficulty and straining with bowel movements
Frequent hiccups now and/or in utero
Excessive drooling
White patches on the tongue
Difficulty holding a pacifier
Mouth is open throughout the day/night
Congestion / Noisy breathing
Poor or slow weight gain
Common Feeding Concerns With Oral Ties:
Pain or difficulty with feeding - with latching and/or throughout the feed
Creased, flattened or blanched nipples after feeding
Lipstick shaped nipples after feeding
Blistered or cut nipples
Gumming or chomping the nipple
Shallow latch on breast or bottle
Decreasing milk supply
Using a nipple shield due to pain or to improve feeding
Clicking noise with feeding
Constantly pulling off and having to re-latch
Lips don't "flange" (look like a duck) when feeding
Prolonged feeding sessions
Gagging, choking, or coughing when feeding or with pacifier use
Leaking milk during feeds
*Family history of oral ties (you, partner, or any other children)
I Think My Baby Has a Tongue Tie, Now What?
If your little one checks some of the boxes above, the BEST thing you can do is get an evaluation from someone who specializes in oral function (IBCLC, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist, Pediatric Dentist, etc.) or even a Denver-based Pediatric Chiropractor with additional training in this area (🙋🏼♀️) who can refer you to the right provider. If you’re concerned about whether or not your infant has a tongue tie, you’re likely a bit confused or overwhelmed with all of the conflicting information out there on the internet or even from the thoughts and opinions of those around you. Trust your gut and find a provider that not only listens, but performs a full-body assessment to help you determine what next steps you can take to help both you and your baby feel more comfortable!
Hi there!
My name is Dr. Dani and I’m an in-home chiropractor for busy women and infants within the Denver Metro area. I work with women of all ages and stages, but truly shine with the pregnancy, postpartum, and pediatric populations. I strive for quality care through extended appointment times, diverse treatment modalities, personalized home-care recommendations, and education so families can feel both empowered and cared for!
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