A tongue-tie is a congenital condition that affects an estimated 10% or more infants. A tongue-tie is a shortened frenulum, the tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. Tongue-tie in babies can impact their ability to move their tongue properly, affecting their ability to nurse effectively to receive the nutrition they need. Lip-ties impact the upper lip movement, which can also interfere with feeding. At South Carolina Tongue Tie Center, we offer effective treatment for tongue-tie in babies at our clinic in Charleston.

Infant Tongue-Tie or Lip-tie Symptoms

There are different levels of tongue-tie in infants. Mild conditions may or may not cause symptoms that are noticeable in babies. Some infants are born with a mild tongue-tie that stretches or lengthens after birth, going away on its own. For others, the condition can cause symptoms that impact the child and possibly the mother. Some of these symptoms include:

• Infant has trouble latching during breastfeeding
• Frequent spitting up or reflux
• Poor weight gain
• Frustration or irritability when eating
• Smacking or popping sounds when feeding
• Longer feeding sessions
• Frequently losing hold of a pacifier

The symptoms for mothers can painful. On top of watching their child struggle to eat, breastfeeding can hurt. The nipples can become flattened, creased, blistered or cut. Milk supply may decrease, and breasts may not drain completely. Feeding can be so difficult for mother and baby that many forego breastfeeding altogether.

Infant Tongue-Tie Release

If your baby has symptoms of tongue-tie or lip-tie, a quick release procedure can correct this condition. Our experienced doctors at South Carolina Tongue Tie Center can perform a quick, non-invasive laser treatment that releases the lingual frenulum, allowing improved movement of the tongue or releasing the frenulum on the upper lip. The procedure takes only 15-20 seconds and is not painful for the infant. It can help resolve feeding issues and prevent further complications with sleeping, speech and breathing as they get older.

To learn more about the treatment of lip-tie or tongue-tie in babies, contact us at South Carolina Tongue Tie Center to schedule a consultation and exam for your child. Call our office in Charleston to book your appointment.