Can a Tongue Tie Cause Feeding Issues? Early Signs and Solutions

Feeding challenges in infants can be both distressing and difficult to navigate for parents. One often overlooked but very real contributor to these issues is a tongue tie, an anatomical concern that, when undiagnosed, can make nursing, bottle-feeding, or even early solid food introduction frustrating for both baby and caregiver.

At Sensory Smiles Children’s Dentistry in Rancho Cucamonga, Dr. El-Sherbini and her compassionate team take a whole-body, multidisciplinary approach to pediatric oral health, one that addresses underlying causes rather than just the symptoms, especially when it comes to feeding complications.

What Is a Tongue Tie and How Does It Affect Feeding?

A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where a tight or short band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. While some ties cause little disruption, others can significantly limit tongue movement, leading to functional problems beginning in infancy. In the context of feeding, the tongue plays a crucial role in:

• Latching properly during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
• Creating the necessary suction for effective milk transfer
• Stabilizing and coordinating swallowing motions

When there’s a restriction caused by a tongue tie, both breastfeeding dyads and bottle-fed infants may experience prolonged or inefficient feedings, leading to unnecessary stress and nutritional concerns.

Early Signs Your Child May Have a Tongue Tie

Detecting a tongue tie early can help minimize feeding frustrations and set the stage for healthy oral development. Parents and healthcare providers should look out for subtle and not-so-subtle indicators, which may include:

• Difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding
• Clicking sounds or excess air intake while feeding
• Gassiness or reflux-like symptoms without a medical diagnosis
• Prolonged feeding times or falling asleep at the breast
• Poor weight gain or failure to thrive in more severe cases

Additionally, breastfeeding mothers may experience nipple pain, blocked ducts, or mastitis due to ineffective milk removal. These mutual challenges highlight the importance of assessing the baby’s oral function as part of feeding care.

Collaborative Tongue Tie Treatment for Better Feeding Outcomes

Effective tongue tie treatment is not just about a quick snip. It’s about an integrated assessment and a child-focused roadmap. At Sensory Smiles Children’s Dentistry, Dr. El-Sherbini emphasizes a collaborative model when treating tongue ties. 

Following a detailed functional evaluation, our practice works closely with local feeding therapists, including both occupational therapists (OTs) and speech-language pathologists (SLPs), to ensure every child receives comprehensive, developmentally appropriate care. Our approach includes:

• Pre- and post-frenectomy therapy to support optimal tongue and oral function
• Collaboration with lactation consultants for smoother feeding transitions
• Use of the LightScalpel CO2 laser for precise, comfortable release with minimal downtime
• Holistic care that includes myofunctional therapy as needed

By working in partnership with a network of trusted specialists, we help children achieve meaningful, lasting improvements, not just in feeding, but in speech, breathing, and long-term oral health.

Why Addressing Feeding Issues Early Makes a Big Difference

Left untreated, a tongue tie can have ripple effects that go well beyond infancy. From difficulties in transitioning to solid foods to speech delays, dental crowding, and even sleep-disordered breathing, early intervention can dramatically reduce the need for more complex therapies later in life. This airway-centered approach to dentistry is precisely what sets our Rancho Cucamonga practice apart.

Our sensory-inclusive certified environment is uniquely designed to support families of all backgrounds and abilities. Whether your child is neurodivergent, medically complex, or simply struggling with feeding milestones, the team at Sensory Smiles creates a calm, customized space where your child can thrive.

Get Expert Tongue Tie Support in Rancho Cucamonga

If you're concerned that a tongue tie might be interfering with your baby's feeding, you're not alone, and trusted help is within reach. At Sensory Smiles Children's Dentistry, we're here to guide you and your child through every stage of care with warmth, clinical expertise, and whole-body wellness in mind. Call our office at (909) 755-5111 to schedule a tongue tie consultation and begin your journey toward easier, more joyful feeding.