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Nursing and Tongue Ties: What Parents Should Know

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and important way to bond with your baby, but it doesn’t always go smoothly. If your little one is struggling to latch, seems fussy during feedings, or isn’t gaining weight as expected, a tongue tie could be the culprit. This common condition can make nursing difficult for both mom and baby. At Village Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help you understand tongue ties, how they impact breastfeeding, and what can be done to make feeding easier and more comfortable for you and your baby.

What Is a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie (or Ankyloglossia) happens when the small piece of tissue under a baby’s tongue (the lingual frenulum) is too tight or thick, making it hard for the tongue to move freely. This can make breastfeeding difficult for both mom and baby.

How to Tell If My Baby Has a Tongue Tie

Every baby is different, but some common signs include:

• Trouble latching or staying latched
• Clicking sounds while nursing
• Gassiness or fussiness after feeding
• Long feeding sessions with little milk transfer
• Nipple pain or soreness for mom

If you’re noticing any of these issues, it may help to talk to a lactation consultant. Dr. Laura and her team will work side by side with a lactation consultant to ensure that mother and baby are receiving the best care.

How a Tongue Tie Affects Nursing

A baby with a tongue tie may have trouble forming a good latch, which can make feeding frustrating and less effective. This can lead to slow weight gain, frustration for both baby and mom, and even a reduced milk supply over time. If left untreated, tongue ties can also affect speech and oral development as your child grows.

Best Treatment for Tongue Tie in Babies

If a tongue tie is making nursing difficult, a simple procedure called a frenectomy can help. This quick, in-office treatment releases the tight tissue under the tongue, allowing for better movement and improved nursing.

At Village Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Laura offers laser frenectomy treatment using the Solea® Laser, a state-of-the-art technology that provides a precise, gentle, and virtually painless experience. Unlike traditional methods, the Solea® Laser allows for a quicker procedure with minimal discomfort and faster healing time, making it an excellent option for infants needing tongue tie treatment.

Helping Your Baby Breastfeed Comfortably

If you think your baby might have a tongue tie, a consultation with a knowledgeable provider is the first step. A combination of a frenectomy and guidance from a lactation consultant can make a big difference in your baby’s feeding success.

For more ways we support healthy smiles, visit our services page.

Resources for Parents

For trusted breastfeeding tips and support, check out La Leche League, a great resource for nursing parents.

If you have questions about your baby’s oral development or feeding concerns, contact us today. Village Pediatric Dentistry is here to support your family every step of the way.