It's 3 AM, your newborn is crying despite your best efforts to feed them, and both of you are exhausted and frustrated. This scenario, familiar to many new parents struggling with undiagnosed tongue tie, doesn't have to be your story.

Welcoming a new baby brings countless moments of joy, but also new concerns and questions. Tongue tie is one condition many new parents aren't familiar with until it affects their child. Though relatively common, affecting between 4% and 11% of newborns, tongue tie can cause feeding difficulties and distress for both baby and parents when undiagnosed.

At LivingCare, early identification leads to prompt treatment and better outcomes. This guide will help you understand tongue tie, how to spot the signs, and what options are available if your baby is affected. Don’t worry – you’re not alone, and this common condition is usually solved with a straightforward procedure. Read on to find out how.

What is tongue tie?

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present from birth where the strip of skin connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, called the lingual frenulum, is shorter or tighter than usual. This restriction can limit the tongue's normal movement and function.

There are different degrees of tongue tie, ranging from mild cases that cause few problems to more severe restrictions that can significantly impact feeding and speech.

Types of tongue tie:

• Anterior tongue tie: Visible at the front of the tongue, easier to spot visually 
• Posterior tongue tie: Located further back under the tongue, often harder to identify without specialist assessment
• Partial tongue tie: The frenulum is present but allows some movement 
• Complete tongue tie: Severe restriction where the tongue is tightly bound to the floor of the mouth

Signs and symptoms to watch for

Spotting tongue tie early can make a significant impact on the journey. Here are key signs to be aware of:

For your baby:

• Staying attached when feeding, or having problems latching on
• Making clicking sounds while feeding 
• Seeming hungry all the time or feeding frequently but for short periods
• Poor weight gain despite frequent feeding 
• A heart-shaped or notched tongue tip when they cry or try to extend their tongue 
• Inability to stick their tongue out beyond their gums, or to the roof of the mouth 
• Difficulty moving their tongue side to side 
• A visible tight or thick band of tissue under the tongue

For breastfeeding mothers:

• Painful or damaged nipples 
• Compressed nipples that look flattened or ridged after feeding
• Mastitis or recurrent blocked ducts
• Not providing enough milk because of a lack of demand

It's worth noting that some babies with tongue tie feed well despite the restriction, while others may struggle significantly. Every baby is different, so individual assessment is essential.

How is tongue tie diagnosed?

If you think your baby might have tongue tie, the first step is usually a physical examination by a healthcare professional. This might be:

• Your midwife or health visitor during routine checks
• Your GP 
• A specialist lactation consultant 
• A paediatric specialist

The assessment typically involves examining your baby's tongue movement and the appearance of the frenulum, as well as observing a feed if you're breastfeeding.

At LivingCare, our dedicated Infant Feeding Clinic provides comprehensive tongue tie assessments with appointments typically available within 7 days – significantly faster than NHS waiting times, which can stretch to several weeks. Our specialist paediatric team uses the Hazelbaker Assessment Tool for Lingual Frenulum Function (HATLFF), the gold standard in tongue tie evaluation, to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. We understand that feeding difficulties can be distressing, and a timely diagnosis could transform your breastfeeding journey.

Treatment options

Not all cases of tongue tie require treatment. It depends on how severe the restriction is, and whether it's causing problems with feeding or other concerns.

At LivingCare, our dedicated tongue tie service offers:

• Consultant-led care: All procedures are performed by our specialist paediatric consultants with extensive experience in infant tongue tie division 
• Same-day treatment: In many cases, assessment and division can be completed in a single appointment if clinically appropriate 
• Comprehensive pre-procedure consultation: Our specialists will explain everything in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
• State-of-the-art facilities: Purpose-designed clinical environments at both our Leeds and Sheffield locations

When treatment is recommended, the main option is a simple procedure called a tongue tie division (frenulotomy):

• This quick procedure involves snipping the small piece of skin which connects the base of the tongue to the floor of the mouth
• It takes seconds and can often be done without anaesthetic in very young babies
• Many babies experience immediate improvement in their ability to feed
• Some babies may cry briefly during the procedure, but most can feed straight afterwards

The procedure might be performed under local anaesthesia for older babies or more complex cases. Our clinic rooms have specialised infant-friendly equipment and comfortable feeding areas for immediate post-procedure breastfeeding support.

After treatment

At LivingCare, our tongue tie service includes comprehensive aftercare:

Immediate post-procedure support: Our specialist lactation consultants provide guidance and assistance with the first feed following the procedure

Follow-up care: A 48-hour telephone check-in and the option for a two-week review appointment if needed 

Detailed aftercare guidance: Written and verbal instructions on what to expect and how to support your baby's recovery

Direct access support line: A dedicated contact number for any concerns in the days following the procedure

Following tongue tie division:

• You'll be encouraged to feed your baby immediately in our comfortable, private feeding areas
• Some babies show immediate improvement in feeding, which our specialists will help you recognise and establish
• Others may take a little time to adjust to their new tongue mobility
• Our team provides specific exercises tailored to your baby's needs to help them adapt to their increased tongue movement

When to seek help

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above or are experiencing ongoing feeding difficulties, don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Early intervention can prevent unnecessary distress and feeding problems.

At LivingCare, we offer:

• Expert assessment by experienced clinicians
• Minimal waiting times for appointments 
• A supportive, caring environment for you and your baby
• Clear guidance on treatment options and aftercare

Whether you're concerned about a potential tongue tie or want reassurance, our team is here to help guide you through this aspect of your parenting journey.

Next Steps

If you're concerned about tongue tie affecting your baby, book a consultation with one of our specialists today. We offer:

• Rapid access appointments: Usually within 7 days at our clinics in Leeds and Sheffield
• Flexible booking options: Online booking or telephone appointments with our friendly patient coordinators
• Comprehensive service packages: Assessment, treatment, and aftercare are all included in our transparent pricing
• Insurance coverage: Accepted by most major health insurance providers
• Self-pay options: Competitive pricing with no hidden costs

Don't struggle with feeding difficulties longer than necessary – get the clarity and support you need for you and your baby's well-being. Call us on 0113 539 4646 or book online through our website.

References

• NHS - Tongue Tie
• La Leche League - Tongue Tie Information
• The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) - Division of Ankyloglossia (Tongue Tie) for Breastfeeding‍
• The Association of Tongue-tie Practitioners