Despite what social media or other people might tell you, not all breastfeeding problems are caused by a tongue tie. While ankyloglossia (the medical word for tongue tie) can certainly cause breastfeeding troubles, it is not the only cause of problems. In this article and video, we will look at the myths surrounding oral ties in breastfeeding babies.
What is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. This is due to a short, tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethering the bottom of the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth.
In some situations, there’s a possibility it can hinder an infant’s ability to latch effectively. This will lead to challenges such as nipple pain for the breastfeeding mother or poor milk transfer for the baby. The diagnosis of tongue tie has been on the rise, sparking debates among healthcare professionals about its impact and the necessity of frenotomy procedures (cutting the frenulum).
You can read the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine’s position statement on Ankyloglossia In the Breastfeeding Dyad.
Four Questions to Ask Yourself Before Anyone Cuts Your Baby’s Tongue Tie
Before you choose a medical professional to cut or clip your baby’s tongue tie, be sure to ask yourself these four questions first.
1. How much is this person profiting off of telling me this information?
In my practice as a breastfeeding medicine physician, I have seen many babies who have been harmed by health care professionals who “fix” tongue ties without taking a thorough history first. Unfortunately, there are many medical providers that see tongue tie clipping as a profitable business model. Instead, choose someone who does a thorough evaluation before deciding on the procedure.
2. Do they have a deep understanding of breastfeeding?
Consider the provider’s expertise and depth of understanding when it comes to breastfeeding. Most of the time, breastfeeding issues can be solved without clipping a tongue tie. Unfortunately, we hear a lot about community professionals who have limited differential diagnoses of the problem.
A credible professional should thoroughly investigate all possible causes of the problem. The person should demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of tongue tie and its implications for breastfeeding rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
3. What about lip ties or buccal ties?
Neither lip ties nor buccal ties interfere with a baby’s breastfeeding abilities. Most often, these extra folds of skin are anatomically normal and do not change the function of the structures in the mouth. There is little evidence that cutting through any of these tissues will help you and your baby to find success with breastfeeding.
WHEN IS A TONGUE TIE RELEASE NECESSARY?
As we mentioned earlier, there are certain times where a tongue tie release will likely benefit your breastfeeding relationship.
Breastfeeding is extremely painful.
If everything else is accounted for and mom is continuing to have significant nipple pain or damage, likely the baby’s tongue tie is to blame.
The baby is swallowing a lot of air or clicking at the breast.
If the baby is frequently taking in a lot of air or producing a clicking sound at the breast it may be due to a loss of suction. The baby may be unable to keep a proper seal at the breast due to a tongue tie. This can lead to poor milk transfer and eventually a low milk supply. In such cases, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional knowledgeable in both breastfeeding and tongue ties will be helpful.
WHEN IS A TONGUE TIE RELEASE UNNECESSARY?
If there’s a structural problem (you see the tongue tie), but it isn’t causing any breastfeeding problems. There’s no reason to treat an issue that isn’t causing a problem.
While tongue ties are a reality for some, it’s vital to recognize and address the entire spectrum of potential issues that can impact breastfeeding. By seeking comprehensive care and exploring all possible solutions, the mother and baby can have a fulfilling breastfeeding experience.
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© 127 Pediatrics, April 2024
This article is for information purposes only. Please consult your personal physician for medical advice.
