Updated: Jan. 5, 2021
Originally Published: April 1, 2019
If you’ve participated in a parenting group, whether in-person or online, you’ve likely encountered the term “tongue-tie.” In my experience, it frequently arises in discussions about breastfeeding challenges.
What is Tongue-Tie?
But what exactly is tongue-tie? Medically known as ankyloglossia, tongue-tie occurs when the band of tissue that connects a baby’s tongue to the bottom of their mouth is shorter than typical. Many infants diagnosed with this condition show no symptoms, while others face limitations in tongue movement, making breastfeeding difficult and sometimes painful.
Often, a diagnosis of tongue-tie is accompanied by lip-tie, where the tissue connecting the baby’s lip to their gums is also shorter than usual. Infants with tongue-tie or lip-tie may struggle to achieve a proper latch, which is crucial for effective breastfeeding. A common sign of this issue is a “clicking” sound while nursing.
Our Experience with Tongue Clipping
When my son was just a month or two old, he was among the 4-11% of newborns identified with tongue-tie. His lactation consultant was the first to point it out, as he consistently made that distinctive clicking noise during our appointments. After discussing our breastfeeding challenges with his pediatrician, it was suggested that we consider clipping his minor tongue-tie in the office to improve our nursing experience.
The procedure was straightforward and took place in the pediatrician’s office. My son cried briefly due to being held still, not from pain. Afterward, he enjoyed some comforting cuddles and seemed to feel no discomfort.
However, despite the procedure, our breastfeeding journey didn’t improve as much as we had hoped. We had not been nursing frequently before the clipping due to latch difficulties, and the change did not bring the desired results. Every baby and breastfeeding relationship is unique, and while tongue clipping benefits many families, it didn’t significantly alter our situation. Eventually, we transitioned to formula once my stored breastmilk was depleted, and he adapted well to bottle feeding.
The Rise of Tongue-Tie Procedures
This raises the question: why is there a noticeable increase in tongue-tie procedures? Severe cases can lead to poor weight gain and are often associated with long-term challenges related to eating and speech. Pain during nursing for mothers is also a concern, as a proper latch is essential.
Over the years, revisions for tongue-tie, or frenotomies, have gained traction. Minor cases, like my son’s, can be treated in-office without the need for general anesthesia—only topical numbing is required. The risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding areas, is minimal.
In more severe cases, where the frenulum is too thick for a simple clip, a frenulotomy may be necessary. This deeper procedure does carry some risks due to sedation and the use of stitches, but it remains a safe option overall.
The rising number of tongue-tie revisions may be attributed to the increased awareness of breastfeeding challenges and the potential long-term impacts on speech and eating. According to a study led by Dr. Andrew Carter, a pediatric specialist, the diagnosis soared from just 3,934 cases in 1997 to approximately 33,000 by 2012, with the number of surgeries climbing from 1,279 to over 12,000 within the same timeframe.
Discussion Among Medical Professionals
This surge has prompted discussions among medical professionals about the accuracy of tongue-tie diagnoses. Are they becoming over-diagnosed, leading to unnecessary procedures? Or are we simply better at identifying those in need of treatment to prevent future issues?
There is no definitive evidence that these revisions guarantee improved breastfeeding or speech outcomes, and success varies greatly among children. As Dr. Sarah Linton, a pediatrician, points out, the pressure for mothers to breastfeed has intensified. Many women feel compelled to explore every possible avenue to make breastfeeding work, placing tongue-tie discussions front and center in this larger conversation.
Making Informed Decisions
For those facing difficulties with breastfeeding, it’s not uncommon for tongue-tie to be suggested as a potential cause. If you’re considering this option for your child, discussing it with healthcare providers is essential. I have no regrets about my son’s revision, but it’s crucial to understand that not every baby with a tongue or lip tie will experience nursing issues. Ultimately, the decision to proceed with any procedure is a personal one. Fortunately, as awareness grows, more research and resources are becoming available to help families make informed choices.
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Summary
Tongue clipping, or frenotomy, has become increasingly common as awareness of tongue-tie grows. While many infants benefit from the procedure, results can vary widely. It’s important for parents to consider all aspects of their situation before making decisions regarding tongue-tie treatments.