#asktheexpert hello doctor, my baby has tongue tie.. what will be the correct time to treat it

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy10 months ago

A. Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, can affect a baby’s ability to feed, speak, or perform oral functions depending on its severity. The timing for treatment depends on symptoms and the impact it’s having on your baby. Here’s a general guideline: 1. Infants (Newborn to 6 Months): If your baby is having difficulty breastfeeding, a doctor might suggest treating it sooner. Some babies struggle to latch or feed effectively, which can impact weight gain and lead to breastfeeding issues for the mother. If feeding is a problem, doctors often recommend a simple procedure called a frenotomy, which can be done in the first few months. 2. Older Babies (6 Months to 1 Year): If tongue tie is mild and feeding isn’t affected, some doctors might suggest waiting and monitoring, especially if bottle-feeding is going well. Treatment can still be done if it later impacts solid feeding or other oral development. 3. Toddlers and Beyond: If a child’s speech or oral motor skills are affected, a doctor may recommend a frenectomy or a similar procedure, which can be done in a dental or ENT setting. Decision to Treat A pediatrician, lactation consultant, or pediatric ENT specialist can help determine the best time. Many parents choose early treatment if there are immediate feeding issues, while others may wait until they see if it impacts speech or eating. If you notice your baby struggling with breastfeeding, gaining weight, or later with speech, consult a healthcare provider who can guide you on the best course of action based on their development.

SIMILAR QUESTIONS

Mom of a 5 yr 3 m old girl

Q. #AskTheExpert How to treat tongue tie in new born