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Tongue Tie /
Lip Tie
Tongue Tie / Lip Tie: What is It and How is It Treated?
Tongue tie (the medical term is ankyloglossia) and lip tie happen when a band of tissue called a frenulum is short, tight or attached in a way that restricts the normal movement of the tongue or lip. It is present from birth and ranges from mild, with little effect, to more restrictive.
How to Identify a Tongue Tie / Lip Tie
A tongue tie or lip tie can show up in different ways. Signs include restricted movement of the tongue or lip, difficulty lifting or extending the tongue, and discomfort with movement. In babies it can contribute to feeding difficulties, including trouble latching and slow weight gain. In older children and adults it may make some speech sounds harder to form. Sometimes it presents more vaguely, so each case is assessed individually.
Causes of a Tongue Tie / Lip Tie
Effects of a Tongue Tie / Lip Tie
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Present at birth (genetic)
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Restricted or uncomfortable tongue or lip movement
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Feeding difficulties and slow weight gain in babies
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Some speech sounds harder to form
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Effects on everyday oral function, such as eating and keeping the mouth clean
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Where relevant, an influence on orofacial development and the airway, assessed case by case
Treatment of a Tongue Tie / Lip Tie
Whether treatment is needed depends on assessment, as not every tie causes problems. Options can include:
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Monitoring, where movement and function are not affected
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Release of the restrictive band of tissue (frenulotomy or frenectomy), typically carried out using a laser where clinically appropriate
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Support from other professionals, for example for infant feeding or speech, where this is relevant
Suitability is determined by a clinical assessment. See also our page on laser tongue-tie and lip-tie release.
Book a Free Consultation: Your First Step
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