How Do I Know If My Baby Could Be Tongue-Tied?

December 3, 2025 Infant

How Do I Know If My Baby Could Be Tongue-Tied?

A tongue-tie happens when the little string under your baby’s tongue is too tight or short. This can make it hard for your baby to move their tongue. You might notice a small dimple at the tip of your baby’s tongue or see that their tongue doesn’t move past their gums when they cry.

Only a small number of babies (less than 1 in 10) are born with tongue-tie,
but having it “clipped” has become more common in recent years. Talk to your baby’s doctor if you think your baby may be tongue-tied. They can check your baby and refer you if treatment is needed.

SOME IMPORTANT FACTS:

Tongue-tie can run in families.

About half of babies with tongue-tie have no problems breastfeeding.

Clipping may help if your baby is not getting enough milk or if your nipples hurt during feeding. But there are many other causes for pain or feeding problems, so it’s best to have your provider take a look first.

If tongue-tie isn’t causing feeding trouble, most experts suggest waiting until your child is older (around age 4) to see if it affects speech. As kids grow, you may start to notice poor oral hygiene and delayed speech.

If your baby seems frustrated while feeding or you are in pain, try pumping your milk until you can have your baby checked. An International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help by observing your baby’s feeding and tongue movement to let you know if a tongue-tie might be a concern, and they can refer you to a doctor for an official diagnosis.

There is no proof that “lip ties,” “cheek ties,” or mouth exercises help.

Remember:

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Author: Maya Bunik MD MPH