Busting Myths about Tongue Tie and Oral Function

Last week, a concerned mother brought her 6-week-old baby to my practice. This little one was experiencing significant discomfort: full-body tension, arching of the spine, torticollis (a tilt and turn of the head to one side), breastfeeding difficulties causing maternal pain, gassiness, and irritability. Upon assessment, I identified tongue and lip ties, along with compromised oral function and sucking skills. The baby was "chomping" during feeds, leading to pain and frustration for both mother and child.
What’s particularly disheartening is that this dysfunction had been overlooked by multiple healthcare providers, including a family doctor, pediatrician, and midwife. The mother was reassured that it was a "mild tie" and didn't require further attention. However, the baby presented with a high-arched palate, an overly sensitive gag reflex, an inability to form a proper seal during feeding, and excessive air swallowing due to dysfunctional oral mechanics.
This scenario is all too common in my practice. To shed light on this issue, let's address the top five myths surrounding tongue ties:

Myth #1: "If the baby is gaining weight, there's no problem."
While adequate weight gain is encouraging, it doesn't necessarily indicate that feeding is without challenges. Babies with tongue ties often develop compensatory sucking techniques, which can lead to prolonged feeding sessions, maternal nipple pain, and potential long-term issues such as speech or dental problems.

Myth #2: "All tongue ties require surgical intervention."
Not every tongue tie necessitates a procedure. Some are mild and don't significantly impact function. These cases may benefit from targeted oral exercises, bodywork, or lactation support. A thorough evaluation by an experienced lactation consultant or oral function specialist is crucial to determine the appropriate course of action.

Myth #3: "Tongue ties only affect breastfeeding."
Tongue ties can influence more than just breastfeeding. They may impact bottle-feeding, introduction to solid foods, speech development, and even sleep patterns. Proper tongue mobility is essential for overall oral function and development.

Myth #4: "Tongue ties are always obvious."
Some tongue ties, especially posterior ones, aren't easily visible and can be missed during routine examinations. These hidden ties require a comprehensive assessment by a trained professional to identify and address them effectively.

Myth #5: "Tongue ties are a recent trend, and treatments are profit-driven."
Tongue ties have been documented throughout history as a cause of feeding and speech difficulties. Recent advancements have improved our understanding and diagnosis. Many dedicated professionals have undergone extensive training to assess and treat tongue ties appropriately, ensuring interventions are based on necessity rather than profit.

Key Takeaway:
Recognizing and debunking these myths empowers parents to make informed decisions about their child's oral health and feeding journey. If you have concerns about your baby's feeding or development, consult with a qualified specialist who can provide personalized care and guidance. I am always happy to answer any questions regarding your child's oral function and skills.