Tongue-tie
What istongue-tie?
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.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a problem affecting some babies with a tight piece of skin between the underside of their tongue and the floor of their mouth (lingual frenulum).
What istongue-tie?
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
Breastfeeding problems
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-t
How is tongue-tie treated?
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 t
Tongue-tie in older children and adults
Untreated tongue-tie may cause no problems as a child gets older, and any tightness may resolve naturally as the mouth develops with age. However, some cases can persist, and may cause problems such
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