Understanding Infant Tongue Tie: A Chiropractic Perspective
At Bright, we support parents during their breast/chest feeding journeys by providing information and care that parents can latch onto to best support their experience. A presentation we commonly see as chiropractors that can impact feeding success is an infant tongue tie, alternatively known as tethered oral tissue (TOT) and medically known as ankyloglossia. It is a condition characterized by a restrictive band of tissue that limits the tongue's movement. If left untreated, this can impact various aspects of an infant’s health and development.
Signs of Tongue Tie:
The frenulum is the oral tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If the frenulum is shortened, this causes a tongue tie. The presence of a tongue tie can become evident during feeding as it limits the tongue’s movement leading to the following signs:
Difficulty latching during feeding
Prolonged feeding times
Gumming or clicking sounds while feeding
Inadequate weight gain
Fussiness or irritability during feedings
Milk comes out of mouth during feeding
Lip blisters
The signs of tongue tie can further be seen in the breast/chest-feeding parent, as well. Since the infant is unable to create a strong latch, they may stay attached for a long period while not taking in milk. This decreases the nipple stimulation which in turn can decrease the amount of milk produced. Take note of the following signs in the breast/chest-feeding parent:
Flattened or cracked nipples
Nipple pain
Poor breast drainage
Decreased milk production
Impacts of Tongue Tie:
Tongue tie does not only impact an infant’s ability to feed effectively but can also have long-term implications on development. An infant facing feeding difficulties due to tongue tie may have poor weight gain and slower growth due to inadequate nutrition. Further, as the infant matures, there may be a delay in speech development as the limited tongue movement can impact the production of certain sounds. Additionally, the positioning of teeth may be impacted, and this can contribute to oral hygiene issues, including increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
The Chiropractic Perspective:
The diagnosis and treatment of infant tongue tie is often in collaboration with lactation consultants, pediatricians, pediatric dentists, and other healthcare practitioners. By taking a team-based approach, it ensures the infant receives comprehensive care which takes different perspectives into account.
The role of chiropractic care has a deep focus on the musculoskeletal system and will include a throughout intra- and extra-oral assessment to identify any muscular tension, fascial adhesions, and joint restrictions. The chiropractor will then treat the infant accordingly while simultaneously providing parents with resources and exercises that can be done at home between visits.
Have questions? Book a complimentary 15-minute meet and greet with one of our Bright chiropractors to learn more.
WRITTEN BY: Dr. Vanessa Cotter, DC
Disclaimer
The advice provided in this article is for information purposes only. It is meant to augment and not replace consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Consultation with a chiropractor or other primary care provider is recommended for anyone suffering from a health problem.