What Are the Signs of Tongue Ties in Toddlers?

Tongue ties, medically referred to as ankyloglossia, are a condition where the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) is shorter or tighter than usual. This restriction can lead to a variety of challenges, particularly in young children. Identifying tongue ties in toddlers can help prevent issues with speech, eating, and oral development. Below are some key signs, as well as facts and statistics, to help parents understand when their child may need to be evaluated for a tongue tie, which we specialize in at South Carolina Tongue Tie.

1. Speech Delays or Difficulties

One of the most noticeable signs of a tongue tie in toddlers is difficulty with speech. Because the tongue plays a crucial role in forming sounds, a restricted tongue can hinder a child’s ability to speak clearly. Common speech issues related to tongue ties include:

• Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, such as “t,” “d,” “z,” “s,” “th,” “r,” and “l.”
• Slurred or unclear speech.
• Delayed speech development compared to peers.

2. Difficulty Eating Solid Foods

Toddlers with tongue ties may have trouble transitioning from liquids to solid foods. The restricted movement of the tongue can make chewing and swallowing more difficult, leading to:

• Choking or gagging while eating.
• Difficulty moving food around the mouth.
• Messy eating habits, with food frequently falling from the mouth.

Additionally, some children may show a preference for soft or pureed foods over more challenging textures, as chewing can be uncomfortable.

3. Issues with Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene can be challenging for toddlers with tongue ties because they may struggle to move their tongues effectively to clear food debris from their teeth. This can increase the risk of:

• Early tooth decay or cavities.
• Bad breath caused by food particles remaining in the mouth.
• Difficulty brushing teeth properly, especially for parents trying to help.

4. Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Problems

While feeding challenges are often more apparent in infancy, some toddlers with tongue ties may still struggle with bottle-feeding or transitioning from bottles to sippy cups. Problems with sucking, latching, or swallowing can persist. Signs to look for include:

• Difficulty transitioning from a bottle to a cup.
• Frequent dribbling or spilling liquids while drinking.
• Fatigue or frustration during feeding.

5. Abnormal Tongue Appearance or Movements

The physical appearance of the tongue may offer clues to a tongue tie. You may notice:

• The tongue is heart-shaped or has a “notch” at the tip.
• The toddler cannot stick their tongue out beyond their lips.
• Difficulty lifting the tongue to the roof of the mouth or side-to-side movements.

Facts and Statistics About Tongue Ties

Approximately 4-11% of newborns are diagnosed with tongue ties, but the condition often persists into toddlerhood if untreated. Some facts you may not know about tongue ties include:

• Genetics: Studies suggest tongue ties can run in families, meaning parents with a history of tongue ties may want to be vigilant for symptoms in their children.
• Gender: Tongue ties are more common in boys than girls, though the reasons for this difference are still being studied.
• Treatment: A simple procedure called a frenectomy, which releases the restricted tissue, can often resolve tongue tie symptoms. This procedure is typically quick, with minimal discomfort, and can dramatically improve speech, eating, and oral health.

If you suspect your toddler has a tongue tie, early intervention is essential to address speech, feeding, and oral health issues. Regular checkups with a pediatric dentist or healthcare provider can help identify the problem, and treatment at South Carolina Tongue Tie can provide significant improvements in a child’s overall development. By staying informed and watching for key signs, you can ensure your child has the best chance to thrive.